Emma by Jane Austen





VOLUME I



CHAPTER I


Emma Woodhouse handsome clever and rich with a comfortable home
and happy disposition seemed to unite some of the best blessings
of existence and had lived nearly twenty one years in the world
with very little to distress or vex her 

She was the youngest of the two daughters of a most affectionate
indulgent father and had in consequence of her sister's marriage
been mistress of his house from a very early period  Her mother
had died too long ago for her to have more than an indistinct
remembrance of her caresses and her place had been supplied
by an excellent woman as governess who had fallen little short
of a mother in affection 

Sixteen years had Miss Taylor been in Mr Woodhouse's family
less as a governess than a friend very fond of both daughters
but particularly of Emma  Between them it was more the intimacy
of sisters  Even before Miss Taylor had ceased to hold the nominal
office of governess the mildness of her temper had hardly allowed
her to impose any restraint and the shadow of authority being
now long passed away they had been living together as friend and
friend very mutually attached and Emma doing just what she liked
highly esteeming Miss Taylor's judgment but directed chiefly by
her own 

The real evils indeed of Emma's situation were the power of having
rather too much her own way and a disposition to think a little
too well of herself these were the disadvantages which threatened
alloy to her many enjoyments  The danger however was at present
so unperceived that they did not by any means rank as misfortunes
with her 

Sorrow came  a gentle sorrow  but not at all in the shape of any
disagreeable consciousness  Miss Taylor married  It was Miss
Taylor's loss which first brought grief  It was on the wedding day
of this beloved friend that Emma first sat in mournful thought
of any continuance  The wedding over and the bride people gone
her father and herself were left to dine together with no prospect
of a third to cheer a long evening  Her father composed himself
to sleep after dinner as usual and she had then only to sit
and think of what she had lost 

The event had every promise of happiness for her friend  Mr Weston
was a man of unexceptionable character easy fortune suitable age
and pleasant manners and there was some satisfaction in considering
with what self denying generous friendship she had always wished
and promoted the match but it was a black morning's work for her 
The want of Miss Taylor would be felt every hour of every day 
She recalled her past kindness  the kindness the affection of sixteen
years  how she had taught and how she had played with her from five
years old  how she had devoted all her powers to attach and amuse
her in health  and how nursed her through the various illnesses
of childhood  A large debt of gratitude was owing here but the
intercourse of the last seven years the equal footing and perfect
unreserve which had soon followed Isabella's marriage on their
being left to each other was yet a dearer tenderer recollection 
She had been a friend and companion such as few possessed intelligent
well informed useful gentle knowing all the ways of the family
interested in all its concerns and peculiarly interested in herself
in every pleasure every scheme of hers  one to whom she could speak
every thought as it arose and who had such an affection for her
as could never find fault 

How was she to bear the change  It was true that her friend was
going only half a mile from them but Emma was aware that great must
be the difference between a Mrs Weston only half a mile from them
and a Miss Taylor in the house and with all her advantages
natural and domestic she was now in great danger of suffering
from intellectual solitude  She dearly loved her father but he
was no companion for her  He could not meet her in conversation
rational or playful 

The evil of the actual disparity in their ages and Mr Woodhouse had
not married early was much increased by his constitution and habits
for having been a valetudinarian all his life without activity
of mind or body he was a much older man in ways than in years
and though everywhere beloved for the friendliness of his heart
and his amiable temper his talents could not have recommended him
at any time 

Her sister though comparatively but little removed by matrimony
being settled in London only sixteen miles off was much beyond
her daily reach and many a long October and November evening must
be struggled through at Hartfield before Christmas brought the next
visit from Isabella and her husband and their little children
to fill the house and give her pleasant society again 

Highbury the large and populous village almost amounting to a town
to which Hartfield in spite of its separate lawn and shrubberies
and name did really belong afforded her no equals  The Woodhouses
were first in consequence there  All looked up to them  She had
many acquaintance in the place for her father was universally civil
but not one among them who could be accepted in lieu of Miss
Taylor for even half a day  It was a melancholy change and Emma
could not but sigh over it and wish for impossible things
till her father awoke and made it necessary to be cheerful 
His spirits required support  He was a nervous man easily depressed
fond of every body that he was used to and hating to part with them
hating change of every kind  Matrimony as the origin of change
was always disagreeable and he was by no means yet reconciled
to his own daughter's marrying nor could ever speak of her but
with compassion though it had been entirely a match of affection
when he was now obliged to part with Miss Taylor too and from
his habits of gentle selfishness and of being never able to
suppose that other people could feel differently from himself
he was very much disposed to think Miss Taylor had done as sad
a thing for herself as for them and would have been a great deal
happier if she had spent all the rest of her life at Hartfield 
Emma smiled and chatted as cheerfully as she could to keep him
from such thoughts but when tea came it was impossible for him
not to say exactly as he had said at dinner

Poor Miss Taylor  I wish she were here again  What a pity it
is that Mr Weston ever thought of her

I cannot agree with you papa you know I cannot  Mr Weston is such
a good humoured pleasant excellent man that he thoroughly deserves
a good wife  and you would not have had Miss Taylor live with us
for ever and bear all my odd humours when she might have a house of her own

A house of her own  But where is the advantage of a house of her own
This is three times as large  And you have never any odd humours
my dear

How often we shall be going to see them and they coming to see
us  We shall be always meeting We must begin we must go and pay
wedding visit very soon

My dear how am I to get so far Randalls is such a distance 
I could not walk half so far

No papa nobody thought of your walking  We must go in the carriage
to be sure

The carriage But James will not like to put the horses to for
such a little way  and where are the poor horses to be while we
are paying our visit

They are to be put into Mr Weston's stable papa  You know we
have settled all that already  We talked it all over with Mr Weston
last night  And as for James you may be very sure he will always like
going to Randalls because of his daughter's being housemaid there 
I only doubt whether he will ever take us anywhere else  That was
your doing papa  You got Hannah that good place  Nobody thought
of Hannah till you mentioned her  James is so obliged to you

I am very glad I did think of her  It was very lucky for I would
not have had poor James think himself slighted upon any account
and I am sure she will make a very good servant she is a civil
pretty spoken girl I have a great opinion of her  Whenever I see her
she always curtseys and asks me how I do in a very pretty manner
and when you have had her here to do needlework I observe she
always turns the lock of the door the right way and never bangs it 
I am sure she will be an excellent servant and it will be a great
comfort to poor Miss Taylor to have somebody about her that she is
used to see  Whenever James goes over to see his daughter you know
she will be hearing of us  He will be able to tell her how we
all are

Emma spared no exertions to maintain this happier flow of ideas
and hoped by the help of backgammon to get her father tolerably
through the evening and be attacked by no regrets but her own 
The backgammon table was placed but a visitor immediately afterwards
walked in and made it unnecessary 

Mr Knightley a sensible man about seven or eight and thirty was not
only a very old and intimate friend of the family but particularly
connected with it as the elder brother of Isabella's husband 
He lived about a mile from Highbury was a frequent visitor
and always welcome and at this time more welcome than usual
as coming directly from their mutual connexions in London  He had
returned to a late dinner after some days absence and now walked
up to Hartfield to say that all were well in Brunswick Square 
It was a happy circumstance and animated Mr Woodhouse for some time 
Mr Knightley had a cheerful manner which always did him good
and his many inquiries after poor Isabella and her children were
answered most satisfactorily  When this was over Mr Woodhouse
gratefully observed It is very kind of you Mr Knightley to come
out at this late hour to call upon us  I am afraid you must have
had a shocking walk

Not at all sir  It is a beautiful moonlight night and so mild
that I must draw back from your great fire

But you must have found it very damp and dirty  I wish you may
not catch cold

Dirty sir Look at my shoes  Not a speck on them

Well that is quite surprising for we have had a vast deal
of rain here  It rained dreadfully hard for half an hour
while we were at breakfast  I wanted them to put off the wedding

By the bye  I have not wished you joy  Being pretty well aware
of what sort of joy you must both be feeling I have been in no hurry
with my congratulations but I hope it all went off tolerably well 
How did you all behave Who cried most

Ah poor Miss Taylor Tis a sad business

Poor Mr and Miss Woodhouse if you please but I cannot possibly
say poor Miss Taylor I have a great regard for you and Emma
but when it comes to the question of dependence or independence  At
any rate it must be better to have only one to please than two

Especially when one of those two is such a fanciful troublesome creature
said Emma playfully  That is what you have in your head
I know  and what you would certainly say if my father were not by

I believe it is very true my dear indeed said Mr Woodhouse
with a sigh  I am afraid I am sometimes very fanciful and troublesome

My dearest papa You do not think I could mean you or suppose
Mr Knightley to mean you  What a horrible idea Oh no I meant
only myself  Mr Knightley loves to find fault with me you know  
in a joke  it is all a joke  We always say what we like to one another

Mr Knightley in fact was one of the few people who could see
faults in Emma Woodhouse and the only one who ever told her of them
and though this was not particularly agreeable to Emma herself
she knew it would be so much less so to her father that she would
not have him really suspect such a circumstance as her not being
thought perfect by every body 

Emma knows I never flatter her said Mr Knightley but I
meant no reflection on any body  Miss Taylor has been used
to have two persons to please she will now have but one 
The chances are that she must be a gainer

Well said Emma willing to let it pass  you want to hear
about the wedding and I shall be happy to tell you for we all
behaved charmingly  Every body was punctual every body in their
best looks not a tear and hardly a long face to be seen  Oh no
we all felt that we were going to be only half a mile apart
and were sure of meeting every day

Dear Emma bears every thing so well said her father 
But Mr Knightley she is really very sorry to lose poor Miss Taylor
and I am sure she will miss her more than she thinks for

Emma turned away her head divided between tears and smiles 
It is impossible that Emma should not miss such a companion
said Mr Knightley  We should not like her so well as we do sir
if we could suppose it but she knows how much the marriage is to
Miss Taylor's advantage she knows how very acceptable it must be
at Miss Taylor's time of life to be settled in a home of her own
and how important to her to be secure of a comfortable provision
and therefore cannot allow herself to feel so much pain as pleasure 
Every friend of Miss Taylor must be glad to have her so happily
married

And you have forgotten one matter of joy to me said Emma
and a very considerable one  that I made the match myself 
I made the match you know four years ago and to have it take place
and be proved in the right when so many people said Mr Weston would
never marry again may comfort me for any thing

Mr Knightley shook his head at her  Her father fondly replied
Ah my dear I wish you would not make matches and foretell things
for whatever you say always comes to pass  Pray do not make any
more matches

I promise you to make none for myself papa but I must indeed
for other people  It is the greatest amusement in the world And
after such success you know  Every body said that Mr Weston would
never marry again  Oh dear no Mr Weston who had been a widower
so long and who seemed so perfectly comfortable without a wife
so constantly occupied either in his business in town or among his
friends here always acceptable wherever he went always cheerful  
Mr Weston need not spend a single evening in the year alone if he did
not like it  Oh no Mr Weston certainly would never marry again 
Some people even talked of a promise to his wife on her deathbed
and others of the son and the uncle not letting him  All manner
of solemn nonsense was talked on the subject but I believed none
of it 

Ever since the day  about four years ago  that Miss Taylor and I
met with him in Broadway Lane when because it began to drizzle
he darted away with so much gallantry and borrowed two umbrellas
for us from Farmer Mitchell's I made up my mind on the subject 
I planned the match from that hour and when such success has blessed
me in this instance dear papa you cannot think that I shall leave
off match making

I do not understand what you mean by success said Mr Knightley 
Success supposes endeavour  Your time has been properly and
delicately spent if you have been endeavouring for the last four
years to bring about this marriage  A worthy employment for a young
lady's mind But if which I rather imagine your making the match
as you call it means only your planning it your saying to yourself
one idle day I think it would be a very good thing for Miss Taylor
if Mr Weston were to marry her and saying it again to yourself
every now and then afterwards why do you talk of success Where
is your merit What are you proud of You made a lucky guess
and that is all that can be said

And have you never known the pleasure and triumph of a lucky guess  
I pity you  I thought you cleverer  for depend upon it a lucky
guess is never merely luck  There is always some talent in it 
And as to my poor word success which you quarrel with I do not
know that I am so entirely without any claim to it  You have drawn
two pretty pictures but I think there may be a third  a something
between the do nothing and the do all If I had not promoted Mr Weston's
visits here and given many little encouragements and smoothed
many little matters it might not have come to any thing after all 
I think you must know Hartfield enough to comprehend that

A straightforward open hearted man like Weston and a rational
unaffected woman like Miss Taylor may be safely left to manage their
own concerns  You are more likely to have done harm to yourself
than good to them by interference

Emma never thinks of herself if she can do good to others
rejoined Mr Woodhouse understanding but in part  But my dear
pray do not make any more matches they are silly things and break up
one's family circle grievously

Only one more papa only for Mr Elton  Poor Mr Elton You
like Mr Elton papa  I must look about for a wife for him 
There is nobody in Highbury who deserves him  and he has been
here a whole year and has fitted up his house so comfortably
that it would be a shame to have him single any longer  and I thought
when he was joining their hands to day he looked so very much as if
he would like to have the same kind office done for him I think
very well of Mr Elton and this is the only way I have of doing
him a service

Mr Elton is a very pretty young man to be sure and a very
good young man and I have a great regard for him  But if you
want to shew him any attention my dear ask him to come
and dine with us some day  That will be a much better thing 
I dare say Mr Knightley will be so kind as to meet him

With a great deal of pleasure sir at any time said Mr Knightley
laughing and I agree with you entirely that it will be a much
better thing  Invite him to dinner Emma and help him to the best
of the fish and the chicken but leave him to chuse his own wife 
Depend upon it a man of six or seven and twenty can take care
of himself



CHAPTER II


Mr Weston was a native of Highbury and born of a respectable family
which for the last two or three generations had been rising into
gentility and property  He had received a good education but
on succeeding early in life to a small independence had become
indisposed for any of the more homely pursuits in which his brothers
were engaged and had satisfied an active cheerful mind and social
temper by entering into the militia of his county then embodied 

Captain Weston was a general favourite and when the chances
of his military life had introduced him to Miss Churchill
of a great Yorkshire family and Miss Churchill fell in love
with him nobody was surprized except her brother and his wife
who had never seen him and who were full of pride and importance
which the connexion would offend 

Miss Churchill however being of age and with the full command
of her fortune  though her fortune bore no proportion to the
family estate  was not to be dissuaded from the marriage and it
took place to the infinite mortification of Mr and Mrs Churchill
who threw her off with due decorum  It was an unsuitable connexion
and did not produce much happiness  Mrs Weston ought to have found
more in it for she had a husband whose warm heart and sweet temper
made him think every thing due to her in return for the great goodness
of being in love with him but though she had one sort of spirit
she had not the best  She had resolution enough to pursue
her own will in spite of her brother but not enough to refrain
from unreasonable regrets at that brother's unreasonable anger
nor from missing the luxuries of her former home  They lived beyond
their income but still it was nothing in comparison of Enscombe
she did not cease to love her husband but she wanted at once
to be the wife of Captain Weston and Miss Churchill of Enscombe 

Captain Weston who had been considered especially by the Churchills
as making such an amazing match was proved to have much the worst
of the bargain for when his wife died after a three years marriage
he was rather a poorer man than at first and with a child to maintain 
From the expense of the child however he was soon relieved 
The boy had with the additional softening claim of a lingering
illness of his mother's been the means of a sort of reconciliation
and Mr and Mrs Churchill having no children of their own
nor any other young creature of equal kindred to care for offered to
take the whole charge of the little Frank soon after her decease 
Some scruples and some reluctance the widower father may be supposed
to have felt but as they were overcome by other considerations
the child was given up to the care and the wealth of the Churchills
and he had only his own comfort to seek and his own situation to
improve as he could 

A complete change of life became desirable  He quitted the militia
and engaged in trade having brothers already established in a
good way in London which afforded him a favourable opening 
It was a concern which brought just employment enough  He had still
a small house in Highbury where most of his leisure days were spent
and between useful occupation and the pleasures of society
the next eighteen or twenty years of his life passed cheerfully away 
He had by that time realised an easy competence  enough to secure
the purchase of a little estate adjoining Highbury which he had
always longed for  enough to marry a woman as portionless even
as Miss Taylor and to live according to the wishes of his own
friendly and social disposition 

It was now some time since Miss Taylor had begun to influence
his schemes but as it was not the tyrannic influence of youth
on youth it had not shaken his determination of never settling
till he could purchase Randalls and the sale of Randalls was long
looked forward to but he had gone steadily on with these objects
in view till they were accomplished  He had made his fortune
bought his house and obtained his wife and was beginning a new
period of existence with every probability of greater happiness
than in any yet passed through  He had never been an unhappy man
his own temper had secured him from that even in his first marriage
but his second must shew him how delightful a well judging and truly
amiable woman could be and must give him the pleasantest proof
of its being a great deal better to choose than to be chosen
to excite gratitude than to feel it 

He had only himself to please in his choice his fortune was
his own for as to Frank it was more than being tacitly brought
up as his uncle's heir it had become so avowed an adoption
as to have him assume the name of Churchill on coming of age 
It was most unlikely therefore that he should ever want his
father's assistance  His father had no apprehension of it 
The aunt was a capricious woman and governed her husband entirely
but it was not in Mr Weston's nature to imagine that any caprice
could be strong enough to affect one so dear and as he believed
so deservedly dear  He saw his son every year in London
and was proud of him and his fond report of him as a very fine
young man had made Highbury feel a sort of pride in him too 
He was looked on as sufficiently belonging to the place to make his
merits and prospects a kind of common concern 

Mr Frank Churchill was one of the boasts of Highbury and a lively
curiosity to see him prevailed though the compliment was so little
returned that he had never been there in his life  His coming
to visit his father had been often talked of but never achieved 

Now upon his father's marriage it was very generally proposed
as a most proper attention that the visit should take place 
There was not a dissentient voice on the subject either when
Mrs Perry drank tea with Mrs and Miss Bates or when Mrs and
Miss Bates returned the visit  Now was the time for Mr Frank
Churchill to come among them and the hope strengthened when it was
understood that he had written to his new mother on the occasion 
For a few days every morning visit in Highbury included some mention
of the handsome letter Mrs Weston had received  I suppose you
have heard of the handsome letter Mr Frank Churchill has written
to Mrs Weston I understand it was a very handsome letter indeed 
Mr Woodhouse told me of it  Mr Woodhouse saw the letter and he
says he never saw such a handsome letter in his life

It was indeed a highly prized letter  Mrs Weston had of course
formed a very favourable idea of the young man and such a pleasing
attention was an irresistible proof of his great good sense
and a most welcome addition to every source and every expression
of congratulation which her marriage had already secured  She felt
herself a most fortunate woman and she had lived long enough
to know how fortunate she might well be thought where the only
regret was for a partial separation from friends whose friendship
for her had never cooled and who could ill bear to part with her 

She knew that at times she must be missed and could not think
without pain of Emma's losing a single pleasure or suffering
an hour's ennui from the want of her companionableness but dear
Emma was of no feeble character she was more equal to her situation
than most girls would have been and had sense and energy
and spirits that might be hoped would bear her well and happily
through its little difficulties and privations  And then there was
such comfort in the very easy distance of Randalls from Hartfield
so convenient for even solitary female walking and in Mr Weston's
disposition and circumstances which would make the approaching
season no hindrance to their spending half the evenings in the
week together 

Her situation was altogether the subject of hours of gratitude
to Mrs Weston and of moments only of regret and her
satisfaction   her more than satisfaction  her cheerful enjoyment
was so just and so apparent that Emma well as she knew her father
was sometimes taken by surprize at his being still able to pity
poor Miss Taylor when they left her at Randalls in the centre
of every domestic comfort or saw her go away in the evening
attended by her pleasant husband to a carriage of her own 
But never did she go without Mr Woodhouse's giving a gentle sigh
and saying Ah poor Miss Taylor She would be very glad to stay

There was no recovering Miss Taylor  nor much likelihood of
ceasing to pity her but a few weeks brought some alleviation
to Mr Woodhouse  The compliments of his neighbours were over
he was no longer teased by being wished joy of so sorrowful an event
and the wedding cake which had been a great distress to him
was all eat up  His own stomach could bear nothing rich and he
could never believe other people to be different from himself 
What was unwholesome to him he regarded as unfit for any body
and he had therefore earnestly tried to dissuade them from having
any wedding cake at all and when that proved vain as earnestly
tried to prevent any body's eating it  He had been at the pains
of consulting Mr Perry the apothecary on the subject  Mr Perry
was an intelligent gentlemanlike man whose frequent visits were one
of the comforts of Mr Woodhouse's life and upon being applied to
he could not but acknowledge though it seemed rather against the
bias of inclination that wedding cake might certainly disagree
with many  perhaps with most people unless taken moderately 
With such an opinion in confirmation of his own Mr Woodhouse hoped
to influence every visitor of the newly married pair but still the
cake was eaten and there was no rest for his benevolent nerves till
it was all gone 

There was a strange rumour in Highbury of all the little Perrys
being seen with a slice of Mrs Weston's wedding cake in their
hands but Mr Woodhouse would never believe it 



CHAPTER III


Mr Woodhouse was fond of society in his own way  He liked very much
to have his friends come and see him and from various united causes
from his long residence at Hartfield and his good nature
from his fortune his house and his daughter he could command the
visits of his own little circle in a great measure as he liked 
He had not much intercourse with any families beyond that circle
his horror of late hours and large dinner parties made him unfit
for any acquaintance but such as would visit him on his own terms 
Fortunately for him Highbury including Randalls in the same parish
and Donwell Abbey in the parish adjoining the seat of Mr Knightley
comprehended many such  Not unfrequently through Emma's persuasion
he had some of the chosen and the best to dine with him but evening
parties were what he preferred and unless he fancied himself at any
time unequal to company there was scarcely an evening in the week
in which Emma could not make up a card table for him 

Real long standing regard brought the Westons and Mr Knightley
and by Mr Elton a young man living alone without liking it
the privilege of exchanging any vacant evening of his own blank solitude
for the elegancies and society of Mr Woodhouse's drawing room
and the smiles of his lovely daughter was in no danger of being
thrown away 

After these came a second set among the most come at able
of whom were Mrs and Miss Bates and Mrs Goddard three ladies
almost always at the service of an invitation from Hartfield
and who were fetched and carried home so often that Mr Woodhouse
thought it no hardship for either James or the horses  Had it
taken place only once a year it would have been a grievance 

Mrs Bates the widow of a former vicar of Highbury was a
very old lady almost past every thing but tea and quadrille 
She lived with her single daughter in a very small way and was
considered with all the regard and respect which a harmless old lady
under such untoward circumstances can excite  Her daughter enjoyed
a most uncommon degree of popularity for a woman neither young
handsome rich nor married  Miss Bates stood in the very worst
predicament in the world for having much of the public favour
and she had no intellectual superiority to make atonement to herself
or frighten those who might hate her into outward respect 
She had never boasted either beauty or cleverness  Her youth
had passed without distinction and her middle of life was devoted
to the care of a failing mother and the endeavour to make a small
income go as far as possible  And yet she was a happy woman
and a woman whom no one named without good will  It was her own
universal good will and contented temper which worked such wonders 
She loved every body was interested in every body's happiness
quicksighted to every body's merits thought herself a most fortunate
creature and surrounded with blessings in such an excellent mother
and so many good neighbours and friends and a home that wanted
for nothing  The simplicity and cheerfulness of her nature
her contented and grateful spirit were a recommendation to every body
and a mine of felicity to herself  She was a great talker upon
little matters which exactly suited Mr Woodhouse full of trivial
communications and harmless gossip 

Mrs Goddard was the mistress of a School  not of a seminary
or an establishment or any thing which professed in long sentences of
refined nonsense to combine liberal acquirements with elegant morality
upon new principles and new systems  and where young ladies for
enormous pay might be screwed out of health and into vanity  but
a real honest old fashioned Boarding school where a reasonable
quantity of accomplishments were sold at a reasonable price
and where girls might be sent to be out of the way and scramble
themselves into a little education without any danger of coming
back prodigies  Mrs Goddard's school was in high repute  and
very deservedly for Highbury was reckoned a particularly healthy
spot she had an ample house and garden gave the children plenty
of wholesome food let them run about a great deal in the summer
and in winter dressed their chilblains with her own hands 
It was no wonder that a train of twenty young couple now walked
after her to church  She was a plain motherly kind of woman
who had worked hard in her youth and now thought herself entitled
to the occasional holiday of a tea visit and having formerly
owed much to Mr Woodhouse's kindness felt his particular claim
on her to leave her neat parlour hung round with fancy work
whenever she could and win or lose a few sixpences by his fireside 

These were the ladies whom Emma found herself very frequently
able to collect and happy was she for her father's sake
in the power though as far as she was herself concerned
it was no remedy for the absence of Mrs Weston  She was delighted
to see her father look comfortable and very much pleased with
herself for contriving things so well but the quiet prosings
of three such women made her feel that every evening so spent
was indeed one of the long evenings she had fearfully anticipated 

As she sat one morning looking forward to exactly such a close
of the present day a note was brought from Mrs Goddard requesting
in most respectful terms to be allowed to bring Miss Smith with her
a most welcome request for Miss Smith was a girl of seventeen
whom Emma knew very well by sight and had long felt an interest in
on account of her beauty  A very gracious invitation was returned
and the evening no longer dreaded by the fair mistress of the mansion 

Harriet Smith was the natural daughter of somebody  Somebody had
placed her several years back at Mrs Goddard's school
and somebody had lately raised her from the condition of scholar
to that of parlour boarder This was all that was generally known
of her history  She had no visible friends but what had been
acquired at Highbury and was now just returned from a long visit
in the country to some young ladies who had been at school there with her 

She was a very pretty girl and her beauty happened to be of a sort
which Emma particularly admired  She was short plump and fair
with a fine bloom blue eyes light hair regular features
and a look of great sweetness and before the end of the evening
Emma was as much pleased with her manners as her person and quite
determined to continue the acquaintance 

She was not struck by any thing remarkably clever in Miss Smith's
conversation but she found her altogether very engaging  not
inconveniently shy not unwilling to talk  and yet so far from pushing
shewing so proper and becoming a deference seeming so pleasantly
grateful for being admitted to Hartfield and so artlessly
impressed by the appearance of every thing in so superior a style
to what she had been used to that she must have good sense
and deserve encouragement  Encouragement should be given 
Those soft blue eyes and all those natural graces should not be
wasted on the inferior society of Highbury and its connexions 
The acquaintance she had already formed were unworthy of her 
The friends from whom she had just parted though very good sort
of people must be doing her harm  They were a family of the name
of Martin whom Emma well knew by character as renting a large farm
of Mr Knightley and residing in the parish of Donwell  very creditably
she believed  she knew Mr Knightley thought highly of them  but they
must be coarse and unpolished and very unfit to be the intimates
of a girl who wanted only a little more knowledge and elegance
to be quite perfect  She would notice her she would improve her
she would detach her from her bad acquaintance and introduce her
into good society she would form her opinions and her manners 
It would be an interesting and certainly a very kind undertaking
highly becoming her own situation in life her leisure and powers 

She was so busy in admiring those soft blue eyes in talking
and listening and forming all these schemes in the in betweens that
the evening flew away at a very unusual rate and the supper table
which always closed such parties and for which she had been
used to sit and watch the due time was all set out and ready
and moved forwards to the fire before she was aware  With an
alacrity beyond the common impulse of a spirit which yet was never
indifferent to the credit of doing every thing well and attentively
with the real good will of a mind delighted with its own ideas
did she then do all the honours of the meal and help and recommend
the minced chicken and scalloped oysters with an urgency which she
knew would be acceptable to the early hours and civil scruples of their guests 

Upon such occasions poor Mr Woodhouses feelings were in sad warfare 
He loved to have the cloth laid because it had been the fashion
of his youth but his conviction of suppers being very unwholesome
made him rather sorry to see any thing put on it and while his
hospitality would have welcomed his visitors to every thing
his care for their health made him grieve that they would eat 

Such another small basin of thin gruel as his own was all that
he could with thorough self approbation recommend though he
might constrain himself while the ladies were comfortably clearing
the nicer things to say

Mrs Bates let me propose your venturing on one of these eggs 
An egg boiled very soft is not unwholesome  Serle understands boiling
an egg better than any body  I would not recommend an egg boiled
by any body else but you need not be afraid they are very small
you see  one of our small eggs will not hurt you  Miss Bates
let Emma help you to a little bit of tart  a very little bit 
Ours are all apple tarts You need not be afraid of unwholesome
preserves here  I do not advise the custard  Mrs Goddard what say
you to half a glass of wine A small half glass put into a tumbler
of water I do not think it could disagree with you

Emma allowed her father to talk  but supplied her visitors in
a much more satisfactory style and on the present evening had
particular pleasure in sending them away happy  The happiness
of Miss Smith was quite equal to her intentions  Miss Woodhouse
was so great a personage in Highbury that the prospect of the
introduction had given as much panic as pleasure but the humble
grateful little girl went off with highly gratified feelings
delighted with the affability with which Miss Woodhouse had treated
her all the evening and actually shaken hands with her at last



CHAPTER IV


Harriet Smith's intimacy at Hartfield was soon a settled thing 
Quick and decided in her ways Emma lost no time in inviting encouraging
and telling her to come very often and as their acquaintance increased
so did their satisfaction in each other  As a walking companion
Emma had very early foreseen how useful she might find her 
In that respect Mrs Weston's loss had been important  Her father
never went beyond the shrubbery where two divisions of the ground
sufficed him for his long walk or his short as the year varied
and since Mrs Weston's marriage her exercise had been too much confined 
She had ventured once alone to Randalls but it was not pleasant
and a Harriet Smith therefore one whom she could summon at any
time to a walk would be a valuable addition to her privileges 
But in every respect as she saw more of her she approved her
and was confirmed in all her kind designs 

Harriet certainly was not clever but she had a sweet docile
grateful disposition was totally free from conceit and only desiring
to be guided by any one she looked up to  Her early attachment
to herself was very amiable and her inclination for good company
and power of appreciating what was elegant and clever shewed that
there was no want of taste though strength of understanding must
not be expected  Altogether she was quite convinced of Harriet
Smith's being exactly the young friend she wanted  exactly the
something which her home required  Such a friend as Mrs Weston
was out of the question  Two such could never be granted 
Two such she did not want  It was quite a different sort of thing
a sentiment distinct and independent  Mrs Weston was the object
of a regard which had its basis in gratitude and esteem 
Harriet would be loved as one to whom she could be useful 
For Mrs Weston there was nothing to be done for Harriet every thing 

Her first attempts at usefulness were in an endeavour to find out who
were the parents but Harriet could not tell  She was ready to tell
every thing in her power but on this subject questions were vain 
Emma was obliged to fancy what she liked  but she could never
believe that in the same situation she should not have discovered
the truth  Harriet had no penetration  She had been satisfied
to hear and believe just what Mrs Goddard chose to tell her
and looked no farther 

Mrs Goddard and the teachers and the girls and the affairs of the
school in general formed naturally a great part of the conversation  and
but for her acquaintance with the Martins of Abbey Mill Farm
it must have been the whole  But the Martins occupied her thoughts
a good deal she had spent two very happy months with them
and now loved to talk of the pleasures of her visit and describe
the many comforts and wonders of the place  Emma encouraged her
talkativeness   amused by such a picture of another set of beings
and enjoying the youthful simplicity which could speak with so much
exultation of Mrs Martin's having two parlours two very good parlours
indeed one of them quite as large as Mrs Goddard's drawing room
and of her having an upper maid who had lived five and twenty years
with her and of their having eight cows two of them Alderneys
and one a little Welch cow a very pretty little Welch cow indeed
and of Mrs Martin's saying as she was so fond of it it should be
called her cow and of their having a very handsome summer house
in their garden where some day next year they were all to drink
tea   a very handsome summer house large enough to hold a dozen people

For some time she was amused without thinking beyond the immediate cause
but as she came to understand the family better other feelings arose 
She had taken up a wrong idea fancying it was a mother and daughter
a son and son's wife who all lived together but when it appeared
that the Mr Martin who bore a part in the narrative and was always
mentioned with approbation for his great good nature in doing something
or other was a single man that there was no young Mrs Martin
no wife in the case she did suspect danger to her poor little
friend from all this hospitality and kindness and that if she
were not taken care of she might be required to sink herself forever 

With this inspiriting notion her questions increased in number
and meaning and she particularly led Harriet to talk more of Mr Martin
and there was evidently no dislike to it  Harriet was very ready
to speak of the share he had had in their moonlight walks and merry
evening games and dwelt a good deal upon his being so very good humoured
and obliging  He had gone three miles round one day in order to bring
her some walnuts because she had said how fond she was of them
and in every thing else he was so very obliging  He had his
shepherd's son into the parlour one night on purpose to sing to her 
She was very fond of singing  He could sing a little himself 
She believed he was very clever and understood every thing 
He had a very fine flock and while she was with them
he had been bid more for his wool than any body in the country 
She believed every body spoke well of him  His mother and sisters
were very fond of him  Mrs Martin had told her one day and there
was a blush as she said it that it was impossible for any body
to be a better son and therefore she was sure whenever he married
he would make a good husband  Not that she wanted him to marry 
She was in no hurry at all 

Well done Mrs Martin thought Emma  You know what you are about

And when she had come away Mrs Martin was so very kind as to send
Mrs Goddard a beautiful goose  the finest goose Mrs Goddard had
ever seen  Mrs Goddard had dressed it on a Sunday and asked all
the three teachers Miss Nash and Miss Prince and Miss Richardson
to sup with her

Mr Martin I suppose is not a man of information beyond the line
of his own business He does not read

Oh yes  that is no  I do not know  but I believe he has
read a good deal  but not what you would think any thing of 
He reads the Agricultural Reports and some other books that lay
in one of the window seats  but he reads all them to himself 
But sometimes of an evening before we went to cards he would read
something aloud out of the Elegant Extracts very entertaining 
And I know he has read the Vicar of Wakefield  He never read the
Romance of the Forest nor The Children of the Abbey  He had never
heard of such books before I mentioned them but he is determined
to get them now as soon as ever he can

The next question was  

What sort of looking man is Mr Martin

Oh not handsome  not at all handsome  I thought him very plain
at first but I do not think him so plain now  One does not you know
after a time  But did you never see him He is in Highbury every
now and then and he is sure to ride through every week in his way
to Kingston  He has passed you very often

That may be and I may have seen him fifty times but without
having any idea of his name  A young farmer whether on horseback
or on foot is the very last sort of person to raise my curiosity 
The yeomanry are precisely the order of people with whom I feel I
can have nothing to do  A degree or two lower and a creditable
appearance might interest me I might hope to be useful to their
families in some way or other  But a farmer can need none of my help
and is therefore in one sense as much above my notice as in every
other he is below it

To be sure  Oh yes It is not likely you should ever have
observed him but he knows you very well indeed  I mean by sight

I have no doubt of his being a very respectable young man 
I know indeed that he is so and as such wish him well 
What do you imagine his age to be

He was four and twenty the 8th of last June and my birthday is
the 23rd just a fortnight and a day's difference  which is very odd

Only four and twenty That is too young to settle  His mother is
perfectly right not to be in a hurry  They seem very comfortable
as they are and if she were to take any pains to marry him
she would probably repent it  Six years hence if he could meet
with a good sort of young woman in the same rank as his own
with a little money it might be very desirable

Six years hence Dear Miss Woodhouse he would be thirty years old

Well and that is as early as most men can afford to marry
who are not born to an independence  Mr Martin I imagine
has his fortune entirely to make  cannot be at all beforehand with
the world  Whatever money he might come into when his father died
whatever his share of the family property it is I dare say
all afloat all employed in his stock and so forth and though
with diligence and good luck he may be rich in time it is next to
impossible that he should have realised any thing yet

To be sure so it is  But they live very comfortably 
They have no indoors man else they do not want for any thing
and Mrs Martin talks of taking a boy another year

I wish you may not get into a scrape Harriet whenever he does
marry  I mean as to being acquainted with his wife  for though
his sisters from a superior education are not to be altogether
objected to it does not follow that he might marry any body at all fit
for you to notice  The misfortune of your birth ought to make you
particularly careful as to your associates  There can be no doubt
of your being a gentleman's daughter and you must support your
claim to that station by every thing within your own power or there
will be plenty of people who would take pleasure in degrading you

Yes to be sure I suppose there are  But while I visit
at Hartfield and you are so kind to me Miss Woodhouse
I am not afraid of what any body can do

You understand the force of influence pretty well Harriet but I
would have you so firmly established in good society as to be
independent even of Hartfield and Miss Woodhouse  I want to see you
permanently well connected and to that end it will be advisable
to have as few odd acquaintance as may be and therefore I say
that if you should still be in this country when Mr Martin marries
I wish you may not be drawn in by your intimacy with the sisters
to be acquainted with the wife who will probably be some mere
farmer's daughter without education

To be sure  Yes  Not that I think Mr Martin would ever marry any body
but what had had some education  and been very well brought up 
However I do not mean to set up my opinion against your's  and I
am sure I shall not wish for the acquaintance of his wife  I shall
always have a great regard for the Miss Martins especially Elizabeth
and should be very sorry to give them up for they are quite as well
educated as me  But if he marries a very ignorant vulgar woman
certainly I had better not visit her if I can help it

Emma watched her through the fluctuations of this speech
and saw no alarming symptoms of love  The young man had been
the first admirer but she trusted there was no other hold
and that there would be no serious difficulty on Harriet's side
to oppose any friendly arrangement of her own 

They met Mr Martin the very next day as they were walking on the
Donwell road  He was on foot and after looking very respectfully
at her looked with most unfeigned satisfaction at her companion 
Emma was not sorry to have such an opportunity of survey
and walking a few yards forward while they talked together soon made
her quick eye sufficiently acquainted with Mr Robert Martin 
His appearance was very neat and he looked like a sensible young man
but his person had no other advantage and when he came to be
contrasted with gentlemen she thought he must lose all the ground
he had gained in Harriet's inclination  Harriet was not insensible
of manner she had voluntarily noticed her father's gentleness
with admiration as well as wonder  Mr Martin looked as if he
did not know what manner was 

They remained but a few minutes together as Miss Woodhouse must
not be kept waiting and Harriet then came running to her with a
smiling face and in a flutter of spirits which Miss Woodhouse
hoped very soon to compose 

Only think of our happening to meet him  How very odd It was
quite a chance he said that he had not gone round by Randalls 
He did not think we ever walked this road  He thought we walked
towards Randalls most days  He has not been able to get the
Romance of the Forest yet  He was so busy the last time he was
at Kingston that he quite forgot it but he goes again to morrow 
So very odd we should happen to meet Well Miss Woodhouse is he
like what you expected What do you think of him Do you think him
so very plain

He is very plain undoubtedly  remarkably plain  but that is
nothing compared with his entire want of gentility  I had no
right to expect much and I did not expect much but I had no
idea that he could be so very clownish so totally without air 
I had imagined him I confess a degree or two nearer gentility

To be sure said Harriet in a mortified voice he is not
so genteel as real gentlemen

I think Harriet since your acquaintance with us you have been
repeatedly in the company of some such very real gentlemen
that you must yourself be struck with the difference in Mr Martin 
At Hartfield you have had very good specimens of well educated
well bred men  I should be surprized if after seeing them
you could be in company with Mr Martin again without perceiving
him to be a very inferior creature  and rather wondering at
yourself for having ever thought him at all agreeable before 
Do not you begin to feel that now Were not you struck I am sure
you must have been struck by his awkward look and abrupt manner
and the uncouthness of a voice which I heard to be wholly unmodulated
as I stood here

Certainly he is not like Mr Knightley  He has not such a fine
air and way of walking as Mr Knightley  I see the difference
plain enough  But Mr Knightley is so very fine a man

Mr Knightley's air is so remarkably good that it is not fair
to compare Mr Martin with him  You might not see one in a hundred
with gentleman so plainly written as in Mr Knightley  But he is
not the only gentleman you have been lately used to  What say you
to Mr Weston and Mr Elton Compare Mr Martin with either of them 
Compare their manner of carrying themselves of walking of speaking
of being silent  You must see the difference

Oh yes  there is a great difference  But Mr Weston is almost
an old man  Mr Weston must be between forty and fifty

Which makes his good manners the more valuable  The older a
person grows Harriet the more important it is that their manners
should not be bad the more glaring and disgusting any loudness
or coarseness or awkwardness becomes  What is passable in youth
is detestable in later age  Mr Martin is now awkward and abrupt
what will he be at Mr Weston's time of life

There is no saying indeed replied Harriet rather solemnly 

But there may be pretty good guessing  He will be a completely gross
vulgar farmer totally inattentive to appearances and thinking
of nothing but profit and loss

Will he indeed That will be very bad

How much his business engrosses him already is very plain from the
circumstance of his forgetting to inquire for the book you recommended 
He was a great deal too full of the market to think of any thing
else  which is just as it should be for a thriving man  What has
he to do with books And I have no doubt that he will thrive
and be a very rich man in time  and his being illiterate and coarse
need not disturb us

I wonder he did not remember the book  was all Harriet's answer
and spoken with a degree of grave displeasure which Emma thought might
be safely left to itself  She therefore said no more for some time 
Her next beginning was

In one respect perhaps Mr Elton's manners are superior
to Mr Knightley's or Mr Weston's They have more gentleness 
They might be more safely held up as a pattern  There is an openness
a quickness almost a bluntness in Mr Weston which every body
likes in him because there is so much good humour with it  but
that would not do to be copied  Neither would Mr Knightley's
downright decided commanding sort of manner though it suits
him very well his figure and look and situation in life seem
to allow it but if any young man were to set about copying him
he would not be sufferable  On the contrary I think a young man
might be very safely recommended to take Mr Elton as a model 
Mr Elton is good humoured cheerful obliging and gentle 
He seems to me to be grown particularly gentle of late  I do not
know whether he has any design of ingratiating himself with either
of us Harriet by additional softness but it strikes me that his
manners are softer than they used to be  If he means any thing
it must be to please you  Did not I tell you what he said of you
the other day

She then repeated some warm personal praise which she had drawn
from Mr Elton and now did full justice to and Harriet blushed
and smiled and said she had always thought Mr Elton very agreeable 

Mr Elton was the very person fixed on by Emma for driving
the young farmer out of Harriet's head  She thought it would
be an excellent match and only too palpably desirable natural
and probable for her to have much merit in planning it 
She feared it was what every body else must think of and predict 
It was not likely however that any body should have equalled
her in the date of the plan as it had entered her brain during
the very first evening of Harriet's coming to Hartfield  The longer
she considered it the greater was her sense of its expediency 
Mr Elton's situation was most suitable quite the gentleman himself
and without low connexions at the same time not of any family
that could fairly object to the doubtful birth of Harriet  He had a
comfortable home for her and Emma imagined a very sufficient income
for though the vicarage of Highbury was not large he was known
to have some independent property and she thought very highly
of him as a good humoured well meaning respectable young man
without any deficiency of useful understanding or knowledge of the world 

She had already satisfied herself that he thought Harriet a beautiful
girl which she trusted with such frequent meetings at Hartfield
was foundation enough on his side and on Harriet's there could be
little doubt that the idea of being preferred by him would have all
the usual weight and efficacy  And he was really a very pleasing
young man a young man whom any woman not fastidious might like 
He was reckoned very handsome his person much admired in general
though not by her there being a want of elegance of feature which
she could not dispense with  but the girl who could be gratified
by a Robert Martin's riding about the country to get walnuts
for her might very well be conquered by Mr Elton's admiration 



CHAPTER V


I do not know what your opinion may be Mrs Weston said Mr Knightley of
this great intimacy between Emma and Harriet Smith but I think it a bad thing

A bad thing Do you really think it a bad thing   why so

I think they will neither of them do the other any good

You surprize me Emma must do Harriet good and by supplying her
with a new object of interest Harriet may be said to do Emma good 
I have been seeing their intimacy with the greatest pleasure 
How very differently we feel  Not think they will do each other any
good This will certainly be the beginning of one of our quarrels
about Emma Mr Knightley

Perhaps you think I am come on purpose to quarrel with you
knowing Weston to be out and that you must still fight your own battle

Mr Weston would undoubtedly support me if he were here
for he thinks exactly as I do on the subject  We were speaking
of it only yesterday and agreeing how fortunate it was for Emma
that there should be such a girl in Highbury for her to associate with 
Mr Knightley I shall not allow you to be a fair judge in this case 
You are so much used to live alone that you do not know the value
of a companion and perhaps no man can be a good judge of the comfort
a woman feels in the society of one of her own sex after being used
to it all her life  I can imagine your objection to Harriet Smith 
She is not the superior young woman which Emma's friend ought to be 
But on the other hand as Emma wants to see her better informed
it will be an inducement to her to read more herself  They will
read together  She means it I know

Emma has been meaning to read more ever since she was twelve
years old  I have seen a great many lists of her drawing up at
various times of books that she meant to read regularly through  and
very good lists they were  very well chosen and very neatly
arranged  sometimes alphabetically and sometimes by some other rule 
The list she drew up when only fourteen  I remember thinking it
did her judgment so much credit that I preserved it some time
and I dare say she may have made out a very good list now  But I
have done with expecting any course of steady reading from Emma 
She will never submit to any thing requiring industry and patience
and a subjection of the fancy to the understanding  Where Miss Taylor
failed to stimulate I may safely affirm that Harriet Smith will do
nothing   You never could persuade her to read half so much as you
wished  You know you could not

I dare say replied Mrs Weston smiling that I thought
so then  but since we have parted I can never remember Emma's
omitting to do any thing I wished

There is hardly any desiring to refresh such a memory as that  said
Mr Knightley feelingly and for a moment or two he had done  But I
he soon added who have had no such charm thrown over my senses
must still see hear and remember  Emma is spoiled by being the
cleverest of her family  At ten years old she had the misfortune of
being able to answer questions which puzzled her sister at seventeen 
She was always quick and assured Isabella slow and diffident 
And ever since she was twelve Emma has been mistress of the house
and of you all  In her mother she lost the only person able to cope
with her  She inherits her mother's talents and must have been
under subjection to her

I should have been sorry Mr Knightley to be dependent on
your recommendation had I quitted Mr Woodhouse's family and wanted
another situation I do not think you would have spoken a good word for
me to any body  I am sure you always thought me unfit for the office I held

Yes said he smiling  You are better placed here very fit
for a wife but not at all for a governess  But you were preparing
yourself to be an excellent wife all the time you were at Hartfield 
You might not give Emma such a complete education as your powers would
seem to promise but you were receiving a very good education from her
on the very material matrimonial point of submitting your own will
and doing as you were bid and if Weston had asked me to recommend
him a wife I should certainly have named Miss Taylor

Thank you  There will be very little merit in making a good wife
to such a man as Mr Weston

Why to own the truth I am afraid you are rather thrown away
and that with every disposition to bear there will be nothing
to be borne  We will not despair however  Weston may grow cross
from the wantonness of comfort or his son may plague him

I hope not that  It is not likely  No Mr Knightley do not
foretell vexation from that quarter

Not I indeed  I only name possibilities  I do not pretend to Emma's
genius for foretelling and guessing  I hope with all my heart
the young man may be a Weston in merit and a Churchill in fortune  But
Harriet Smith  I have not half done about Harriet Smith  I think
her the very worst sort of companion that Emma could possibly have 
She knows nothing herself and looks upon Emma as knowing every thing 
She is a flatterer in all her ways and so much the worse
because undesigned  Her ignorance is hourly flattery  How can
Emma imagine she has any thing to learn herself while Harriet
is presenting such a delightful inferiority And as for Harriet
I will venture to say that she cannot gain by the acquaintance 
Hartfield will only put her out of conceit with all the other places
she belongs to  She will grow just refined enough to be uncomfortable
with those among whom birth and circumstances have placed her home 
I am much mistaken if Emma's doctrines give any strength of mind
or tend at all to make a girl adapt herself rationally to the varieties
of her situation in life  They only give a little polish

I either depend more upon Emma's good sense than you do or am more
anxious for her present comfort for I cannot lament the acquaintance 
How well she looked last night

Oh you would rather talk of her person than her mind would you
Very well I shall not attempt to deny Emma's being pretty

Pretty say beautiful rather  Can you imagine any thing nearer
perfect beauty than Emma altogether   face and figure

I do not know what I could imagine but I confess that I have
seldom seen a face or figure more pleasing to me than hers 
But I am a partial old friend

Such an eye  the true hazle eye  and so brilliant regular features
open countenance with a complexion oh what a bloom of full health
and such a pretty height and size such a firm and upright figure
There is health not merely in her bloom but in her air her head
her glance  One hears sometimes of a child being the picture
of health now Emma always gives me the idea of being the complete
picture of grown up health  She is loveliness itself  Mr Knightley
is not she

I have not a fault to find with her person he replied 
I think her all you describe  I love to look at her and I
will add this praise that I do not think her personally vain 
Considering how very handsome she is she appears to be little
occupied with it her vanity lies another way  Mrs Weston I am
not to be talked out of my dislike of Harriet Smith or my dread
of its doing them both harm

And I Mr Knightley am equally stout in my confidence of its
not doing them any harm  With all dear Emma's little faults
she is an excellent creature  Where shall we see a better daughter
or a kinder sister or a truer friend No no she has qualities
which may be trusted she will never lead any one really wrong
she will make no lasting blunder where Emma errs once she is in the
right a hundred times

Very well I will not plague you any more  Emma shall be an angel
and I will keep my spleen to myself till Christmas brings John
and Isabella  John loves Emma with a reasonable and therefore
not a blind affection and Isabella always thinks as he does
except when he is not quite frightened enough about the children 
I am sure of having their opinions with me

I know that you all love her really too well to be unjust or unkind
but excuse me Mr Knightley if I take the liberty I consider myself
you know as having somewhat of the privilege of speech that Emma's
mother might have had the liberty of hinting that I do not think
any possible good can arise from Harriet Smith's intimacy being made
a matter of much discussion among you  Pray excuse me but supposing
any little inconvenience may be apprehended from the intimacy
it cannot be expected that Emma accountable to nobody but her father
who perfectly approves the acquaintance should put an end to it
so long as it is a source of pleasure to herself  It has been so
many years my province to give advice that you cannot be surprized
Mr Knightley at this little remains of office

Not at all cried he I am much obliged to you for it 
It is very good advice and it shall have a better fate than your
advice has often found for it shall be attended to

Mrs John Knightley is easily alarmed and might be made unhappy
about her sister

Be satisfied said he I will not raise any outcry  I will keep
my ill humour to myself  I have a very sincere interest in Emma 
Isabella does not seem more my sister has never excited a
greater interest perhaps hardly so great  There is an anxiety
a curiosity in what one feels for Emma  I wonder what will become
of her

So do I said Mrs Weston gently very much

She always declares she will never marry which of course
means just nothing at all  But I have no idea that she has yet
ever seen a man she cared for  It would not be a bad thing for her
to be very much in love with a proper object  I should like to see
Emma in love and in some doubt of a return it would do her good 
But there is nobody hereabouts to attach her and she goes so seldom
from home

There does indeed seem as little to tempt her to break
her resolution at present said Mrs Weston as can well be
and while she is so happy at Hartfield I cannot wish her to be
forming any attachment which would be creating such difficulties
on poor Mr Woodhouse's account  I do not recommend matrimony
at present to Emma though I mean no slight to the state I assure you

Part of her meaning was to conceal some favourite thoughts of
her own and Mr Weston's on the subject as much as possible 
There were wishes at Randalls respecting Emma's destiny but it
was not desirable to have them suspected and the quiet transition
which Mr Knightley soon afterwards made to What does Weston
think of the weather shall we have rain convinced her that he
had nothing more to say or surmise about Hartfield 



CHAPTER VI


Emma could not feel a doubt of having given Harriet's fancy
a proper direction and raised the gratitude of her young vanity
to a very good purpose for she found her decidedly more sensible
than before of Mr Elton's being a remarkably handsome man with most
agreeable manners and as she had no hesitation in following up
the assurance of his admiration by agreeable hints she was soon
pretty confident of creating as much liking on Harriet's side
as there could be any occasion for  She was quite convinced
of Mr Elton's being in the fairest way of falling in love
if not in love already  She had no scruple with regard to him 
He talked of Harriet and praised her so warmly that she could
not suppose any thing wanting which a little time would not add 
His perception of the striking improvement of Harriet's manner
since her introduction at Hartfield was not one of the least
agreeable proofs of his growing attachment 

You have given Miss Smith all that she required said he
you have made her graceful and easy  She was a beautiful creature
when she came to you but in my opinion the attractions you have
added are infinitely superior to what she received from nature

I am glad you think I have been useful to her but Harriet
only wanted drawing out and receiving a few very few hints 
She had all the natural grace of sweetness of temper and artlessness
in herself  I have done very little

If it were admissible to contradict a lady said the gallant
Mr Elton  

I have perhaps given her a little more decision of character
have taught her to think on points which had not fallen in her
way before

Exactly so that is what principally strikes me  So much superadded
decision of character Skilful has been the hand

Great has been the pleasure I am sure  I never met with
a disposition more truly amiable

I have no doubt of it And it was spoken with a sort
of sighing animation which had a vast deal of the lover 
She was not less pleased another day with the manner
in which he seconded a sudden wish of hers to have Harriet's picture 

Did you ever have your likeness taken Harriet said she did
you ever sit for your picture

Harriet was on the point of leaving the room and only stopt to say
with a very interesting naivete

Oh dear no never

No sooner was she out of sight than Emma exclaimed

What an exquisite possession a good picture of her would be I would
give any money for it  I almost long to attempt her likeness myself 
You do not know it I dare say but two or three years ago I had
a great passion for taking likenesses and attempted several of
my friends and was thought to have a tolerable eye in general 
But from one cause or another I gave it up in disgust 
But really I could almost venture if Harriet would sit to me 
It would be such a delight to have her picture

Let me entreat you cried Mr Elton it would indeed be a delight
Let me entreat you Miss Woodhouse to exercise so charming a
talent in favour of your friend  I know what your drawings are 
How could you suppose me ignorant Is not this room rich in
specimens of your landscapes and flowers and has not Mrs Weston
some inimitable figure pieces in her drawing room at Randalls

Yes good man  thought Emma  but what has all that to do with taking
likenesses You know nothing of drawing  Don't pretend to be
in raptures about mine  Keep your raptures for Harriet's face 
Well if you give me such kind encouragement Mr Elton I believe
I shall try what I can do  Harriet's features are very delicate
which makes a likeness difficult and yet there is a peculiarity
in the shape of the eye and the lines about the mouth which one ought
to catch

Exactly so  The shape of the eye and the lines about the mouth  I
have not a doubt of your success  Pray pray attempt it 
As you will do it it will indeed to use your own words
be an exquisite possession

But I am afraid Mr Elton Harriet will not like to sit 
She thinks so little of her own beauty  Did not you observe her
manner of answering me How completely it meant why should my
picture be drawn

Oh yes I observed it I assure you  It was not lost on me 
But still I cannot imagine she would not be persuaded

Harriet was soon back again and the proposal almost immediately made
and she had no scruples which could stand many minutes against the earnest
pressing of both the others  Emma wished to go to work directly
and therefore produced the portfolio containing her various attempts
at portraits for not one of them had ever been finished that they
might decide together on the best size for Harriet  Her many
beginnings were displayed  Miniatures half lengths whole lengths
pencil crayon and water colours had been all tried in turn 
She had always wanted to do every thing and had made more progress
both in drawing and music than many might have done with so little
labour as she would ever submit to  She played and sang  and drew
in almost every style but steadiness had always been wanting
and in nothing had she approached the degree of excellence which she
would have been glad to command and ought not to have failed of 
She was not much deceived as to her own skill either as an artist
or a musician but she was not unwilling to have others deceived
or sorry to know her reputation for accomplishment often higher
than it deserved 

There was merit in every drawing  in the least finished perhaps the most
her style was spirited but had there been much less or had there
been ten times more the delight and admiration of her two companions
would have been the same  They were both in ecstasies  A likeness
pleases every body and Miss Woodhouse's performances must be capital 

No great variety of faces for you said Emma  I had only my
own family to study from  There is my father  another of my
father  but the idea of sitting for his picture made him so nervous
that I could only take him by stealth neither of them very
like therefore  Mrs Weston again and again and again you see 
Dear Mrs Weston always my kindest friend on every occasion 
She would sit whenever I asked her  There is my sister and really
quite her own little elegant figure  and the face not unlike 
I should have made a good likeness of her if she would have
sat longer but she was in such a hurry to have me draw her four
children that she would not be quiet  Then here come all my
attempts at three of those four children  there they are
Henry and John and Bella from one end of the sheet to the other
and any one of them might do for any one of the rest  She was so
eager to have them drawn that I could not refuse but there is no
making children of three or four years old stand still you know
nor can it be very easy to take any likeness of them beyond the
air and complexion unless they are coarser featured than any
of mama's children ever were  Here is my sketch of the fourth
who was a baby  I took him as he was sleeping on the sofa and it
is as strong a likeness of his cockade as you would wish to see 
He had nestled down his head most conveniently  That's very like 
I am rather proud of little George  The corner of the sofa is very good 
Then here is my last  unclosing a pretty sketch of a gentleman
in small size whole length   my last and my best  my brother
Mr John Knightley    This did not want much of being finished when I
put it away in a pet and vowed I would never take another likeness 
I could not help being provoked for after all my pains and when I
had really made a very good likeness of it  Mrs Weston and I
were quite agreed in thinking it very like  only too handsome  too
flattering  but that was a fault on the right side   after
all this came poor dear Isabella's cold approbation of  Yes
it was a little like  but to be sure it did not do him justice
We had had a great deal of trouble in persuading him to sit at all 
It was made a great favour of and altogether it was more than I
could bear and so I never would finish it to have it apologised
over as an unfavourable likeness to every morning visitor in
Brunswick Square  and as I said I did then forswear ever drawing
any body again  But for Harriet's sake or rather for my own
and as there are no husbands and wives in the case at present
I will break my resolution now

Mr Elton seemed very properly struck and delighted by the idea
and was repeating No husbands and wives in the case at present
indeed as you observe  Exactly so  No husbands and wives
with so interesting a consciousness that Emma began to consider
whether she had not better leave them together at once  But as she
wanted to be drawing the declaration must wait a little longer 

She had soon fixed on the size and sort of portrait 
It was to be a whole length in water colours like Mr John
Knightley's and was destined if she could please herself
to hold a very honourable station over the mantelpiece 

The sitting began and Harriet smiling and blushing and afraid
of not keeping her attitude and countenance presented a very sweet
mixture of youthful expression to the steady eyes of the artist 
But there was no doing any thing with Mr Elton fidgeting behind
her and watching every touch  She gave him credit for stationing
himself where he might gaze and gaze again without offence
but was really obliged to put an end to it and request him to
place himself elsewhere  It then occurred to her to employ him
in reading 

If he would be so good as to read to them it would be a kindness
indeed It would amuse away the difficulties of her part and lessen
the irksomeness of Miss Smith's

Mr Elton was only too happy  Harriet listened and Emma drew
in peace  She must allow him to be still frequently coming to look
any thing less would certainly have been too little in a lover
and he was ready at the smallest intermission of the pencil
to jump up and see the progress and be charmed  There was no
being displeased with such an encourager for his admiration
made him discern a likeness almost before it was possible 
She could not respect his eye but his love and his complaisance
were unexceptionable 

The sitting was altogether very satisfactory she was quite
enough pleased with the first day's sketch to wish to go on 
There was no want of likeness she had been fortunate in the attitude
and as she meant to throw in a little improvement to the figure
to give a little more height and considerably more elegance she had
great confidence of its being in every way a pretty drawing at last
and of its filling its destined place with credit to them both  a
standing memorial of the beauty of one the skill of the other
and the friendship of both with as many other agreeable associations
as Mr Elton's very promising attachment was likely to add 

Harriet was to sit again the next day and Mr Elton just as he ought
entreated for the permission of attending and reading to them again 

By all means  We shall be most happy to consider you as one
of the party

The same civilities and courtesies the same success and satisfaction
took place on the morrow and accompanied the whole progress
of the picture which was rapid and happy  Every body who saw it
was pleased but Mr Elton was in continual raptures and defended
it through every criticism 

Miss Woodhouse has given her friend the only beauty she
wanted  observed Mrs Weston to him  not in the least suspecting
that she was addressing a lover  The expression of the eye is
most correct but Miss Smith has not those eyebrows and eyelashes 
It is the fault of her face that she has them not

Do you think so replied he  I cannot agree with you 
It appears to me a most perfect resemblance in every feature 
I never saw such a likeness in my life  We must allow for the effect
of shade you know

You have made her too tall Emma said Mr Knightley 

Emma knew that she had but would not own it and Mr Elton warmly added

Oh no certainly not too tall not in the least too tall  Consider
she is sitting down  which naturally presents a different  which
in short gives exactly the idea  and the proportions must
be preserved you know  Proportions fore shortening  Oh no it
gives one exactly the idea of such a height as Miss Smith's Exactly so indeed

It is very pretty said Mr Woodhouse  So prettily done Just
as your drawings always are my dear  I do not know any body who draws
so well as you do  The only thing I do not thoroughly like is
that she seems to be sitting out of doors with only a little shawl
over her shoulders  and it makes one think she must catch cold

But my dear papa it is supposed to be summer a warm day in summer 
Look at the tree

But it is never safe to sit out of doors my dear

You sir may say any thing cried Mr Elton but I must confess
that I regard it as a most happy thought the placing of Miss
Smith out of doors and the tree is touched with such inimitable
spirit Any other situation would have been much less in character 
The naivete of Miss Smith's manners  and altogether  Oh it is
most admirable I cannot keep my eyes from it  I never saw such
a likeness

The next thing wanted was to get the picture framed and here were a
few difficulties  It must be done directly it must be done in London
the order must go through the hands of some intelligent person whose taste
could be depended on and Isabella the usual doer of all commissions
must not be applied to because it was December and Mr Woodhouse
could not bear the idea of her stirring out of her house in the fogs
of December  But no sooner was the distress known to Mr Elton
than it was removed  His gallantry was always on the alert 
Might he be trusted with the commission what infinite pleasure
should he have in executing it he could ride to London at any time 
It was impossible to say how much he should be gratified by being
employed on such an errand

He was too good  she could not endure the thought   she would
not give him such a troublesome office for the world  brought
on the desired repetition of entreaties and assurances  and
a very few minutes settled the business 

Mr Elton was to take the drawing to London chuse the frame
and give the directions and Emma thought she could so pack it
as to ensure its safety without much incommoding him while he
seemed mostly fearful of not being incommoded enough 

What a precious deposit said he with a tender sigh as he
received it 

This man is almost too gallant to be in love thought Emma 
I should say so but that I suppose there may be a hundred different
ways of being in love  He is an excellent young man and will suit
Harriet exactly it will be an Exactly so as he says himself
but he does sigh and languish and study for compliments rather more
than I could endure as a principal  I come in for a pretty good
share as a second  But it is his gratitude on Harriet's account



CHAPTER VII


The very day of Mr Elton's going to London produced a fresh occasion
for Emma's services towards her friend  Harriet had been at Hartfield
as usual soon after breakfast and after a time had gone home
to return again to dinner she returned and sooner than had been
talked of and with an agitated hurried look announcing something
extraordinary to have happened which she was longing to tell 
Half a minute brought it all out  She had heard as soon as she got
back to Mrs Goddard's that Mr Martin had been there an hour before
and finding she was not at home nor particularly expected had left
a little parcel for her from one of his sisters and gone away
and on opening this parcel she had actually found besides the two
songs which she had lent Elizabeth to copy a letter to herself
and this letter was from him from Mr Martin and contained a direct
proposal of marriage  Who could have thought it She was so surprized
she did not know what to do  Yes quite a proposal of marriage
and a very good letter at least she thought so  And he wrote
as if he really loved her very much  but she did not know  and so
she was come as fast as she could to ask Miss Woodhouse what she
should do   Emma was half ashamed of her friend for seeming so
pleased and so doubtful 

Upon my word she cried the young man is determined not to lose
any thing for want of asking  He will connect himself well if he can

Will you read the letter cried Harriet  Pray do  I'd rather
you would

Emma was not sorry to be pressed  She read and was surprized 
The style of the letter was much above her expectation 
There were not merely no grammatical errors but as a composition it
would not have disgraced a gentleman the language though plain
was strong and unaffected and the sentiments it conveyed very much
to the credit of the writer  It was short but expressed good sense
warm attachment liberality propriety even delicacy of feeling 
She paused over it while Harriet stood anxiously watching for
her opinion with a Well well and was at last forced to add
Is it a good letter or is it too short

Yes indeed a very good letter replied Emma rather slowly  so
good a letter Harriet that every thing considered I think one of
his sisters must have helped him  I can hardly imagine the young
man whom I saw talking with you the other day could express himself
so well if left quite to his own powers and yet it is not the
style of a woman no certainly it is too strong and concise
not diffuse enough for a woman  No doubt he is a sensible man
and I suppose may have a natural talent for  thinks strongly and
clearly  and when he takes a pen in hand his thoughts naturally find
proper words  It is so with some men  Yes I understand the sort
of mind  Vigorous decided with sentiments to a certain point
not coarse  A better written letter Harriet returning it
than I had expected

Well said the still waiting Harriet   well  and   and what
shall I do

What shall you do In what respect Do you mean with regard
to this letter

Yes

But what are you in doubt of You must answer it of course  and speedily

Yes But what shall I say Dear Miss Woodhouse do advise me

Oh no no the letter had much better be all your own  You will
express yourself very properly I am sure  There is no danger of your
not being intelligible which is the first thing  Your meaning must
be unequivocal no doubts or demurs and such expressions of gratitude
and concern for the pain you are inflicting as propriety requires
will present themselves unbidden to your mind I am persuaded 
You need not be prompted to write with the appearance of sorrow
for his disappointment

You think I ought to refuse him then said Harriet looking down 

Ought to refuse him My dear Harriet what do you mean Are you
in any doubt as to that I thought  but I beg your pardon perhaps I
have been under a mistake  I certainly have been misunderstanding
you if you feel in doubt as to the purport of your answer 
I had imagined you were consulting me only as to the wording of it

Harriet was silent  With a little reserve of manner Emma continued

You mean to return a favourable answer I collect

No I do not that is I do not mean  What shall I do What would
you advise me to do Pray dear Miss Woodhouse tell me what I
ought to do

I shall not give you any advice Harriet  I will have nothing to
do with it  This is a point which you must settle with your feelings

I had no notion that he liked me so very much said Harriet
contemplating the letter  For a little while Emma persevered
in her silence but beginning to apprehend the bewitching flattery
of that letter might be too powerful she thought it best to say

I lay it down as a general rule Harriet that if a woman doubts
as to whether she should accept a man or not she certainly ought
to refuse him  If she can hesitate as to Yes she ought to say
No directly  It is not a state to be safely entered into
with doubtful feelings with half a heart  I thought it my duty
as a friend and older than yourself to say thus much to you 
But do not imagine that I want to influence you

Oh no I am sure you are a great deal too kind to  but if you
would just advise me what I had best do  No no I do not mean
that  As you say one's mind ought to be quite made up  One should
not be hesitating  It is a very serious thing  It will be safer
to say No perhaps  Do you think I had better say No

Not for the world said Emma smiling graciously would I advise
you either way  You must be the best judge of your own happiness 
If you prefer Mr Martin to every other person if you think him
the most agreeable man you have ever been in company with why should
you hesitate You blush Harriet  Does any body else occur to you
at this moment under such a definition Harriet Harriet do not
deceive yourself do not be run away with by gratitude and compassion 
At this moment whom are you thinking of

The symptoms were favourable  Instead of answering Harriet turned
away confused and stood thoughtfully by the fire and though
the letter was still in her hand it was now mechanically twisted
about without regard  Emma waited the result with impatience
but not without strong hopes  At last with some hesitation
Harriet said  

Miss Woodhouse as you will not give me your opinion I must
do as well as I can by myself and I have now quite determined
and really almost made up my mind  to refuse Mr Martin  Do you
think I am right

Perfectly perfectly right my dearest Harriet you are doing just
what you ought  While you were at all in suspense I kept my feelings
to myself but now that you are so completely decided I have no
hesitation in approving  Dear Harriet I give myself joy of this 
It would have grieved me to lose your acquaintance which must have
been the consequence of your marrying Mr Martin  While you were in
the smallest degree wavering I said nothing about it because I would
not influence but it would have been the loss of a friend to me 
I could not have visited Mrs Robert Martin of Abbey Mill Farm 
Now I am secure of you for ever

Harriet had not surmised her own danger but the idea of it struck
her forcibly 

You could not have visited me she cried looking aghast 
No to be sure you could not but I never thought of that before 
That would have been too dreadful  What an escape  Dear Miss Woodhouse
I would not give up the pleasure and honour of being intimate with you
for any thing in the world

Indeed Harriet it would have been a severe pang to lose you
but it must have been  You would have thrown yourself out of all
good society  I must have given you up

Dear me  How should I ever have borne it It would have killed
me never to come to Hartfield any more

Dear affectionate creature  You banished to Abbey Mill Farm  You
confined to the society of the illiterate and vulgar all your life
I wonder how the young man could have the assurance to ask it 
He must have a pretty good opinion of himself

I do not think he is conceited either in general said Harriet
her conscience opposing such censure at least he is very good natured
and I shall always feel much obliged to him and have a great regard
for   but that is quite a different thing from  and you know
though he may like me it does not follow that I should  and
certainly I must confess that since my visiting here I have seen
people  and if one comes to compare them person and manners
there is no comparison at all one is so very handsome and agreeable 
However I do really think Mr Martin a very amiable young man
and have a great opinion of him and his being so much attached
to me  and his writing such a letter  but as to leaving you
it is what I would not do upon any consideration

Thank you thank you my own sweet little friend  We will not
be parted  A woman is not to marry a man merely because she is asked
or because he is attached to her and can write a tolerable letter

Oh no  and it is but a short letter too

Emma felt the bad taste of her friend but let it pass with a
very true and it would be a small consolation to her for the
clownish manner which might be offending her every hour of the day
to know that her husband could write a good letter

Oh yes very  Nobody cares for a letter the thing is to be always
happy with pleasant companions  I am quite determined to refuse him 
But how shall I do That shall I say

Emma assured her there would be no difficulty in the answer
and advised its being written directly which was agreed to
in the hope of her assistance and though Emma continued to protest
against any assistance being wanted it was in fact given in the
formation of every sentence  The looking over his letter again
in replying to it had such a softening tendency that it was
particularly necessary to brace her up with a few decisive expressions
and she was so very much concerned at the idea of making him unhappy
and thought so much of what his mother and sisters would think and say
and was so anxious that they should not fancy her ungrateful
that Emma believed if the young man had come in her way at that moment
he would have been accepted after all 

This letter however was written and sealed and sent 
The business was finished and Harriet safe  She was rather low
all the evening but Emma could allow for her amiable regrets
and sometimes relieved them by speaking of her own affection
sometimes by bringing forward the idea of Mr Elton 

I shall never be invited to Abbey Mill again was said in rather
a sorrowful tone 

Nor if you were could I ever bear to part with you my Harriet 
You are a great deal too necessary at Hartfield to be spared
to Abbey Mill

And I am sure I should never want to go there for I am never happy
but at Hartfield

Some time afterwards it was I think Mrs Goddard would be very
much surprized if she knew what had happened  I am sure Miss Nash
would  for Miss Nash thinks her own sister very well married
and it is only a linen draper

One should be sorry to see greater pride or refinement in the
teacher of a school Harriet  I dare say Miss Nash would envy you
such an opportunity as this of being married  Even this conquest
would appear valuable in her eyes  As to any thing superior for you
I suppose she is quite in the dark  The attentions of a certain
person can hardly be among the tittle tattle of Highbury yet 
Hitherto I fancy you and I are the only people to whom his looks
and manners have explained themselves

Harriet blushed and smiled and said something about wondering
that people should like her so much  The idea of Mr Elton was
certainly cheering but still after a time she was tender hearted
again towards the rejected Mr Martin 

Now he has got my letter said she softly  I wonder what they
are all doing  whether his sisters know  if he is unhappy
they will be unhappy too  I hope he will not mind it so very much

Let us think of those among our absent friends who are more
cheerfully employed cried Emma  At this moment perhaps Mr Elton
is shewing your picture to his mother and sisters telling how much
more beautiful is the original and after being asked for it five
or six times allowing them to hear your name your own dear name

My picture  But he has left my picture in Bond street

Has he so  Then I know nothing of Mr Elton  No my dear
little modest Harriet depend upon it the picture will not be
in Bond street till just before he mounts his horse to morrow
It is his companion all this evening his solace his delight 
It opens his designs to his family it introduces you among them
it diffuses through the party those pleasantest feelings of our nature
eager curiosity and warm prepossession  How cheerful how animated
how suspicious how busy their imaginations all are

Harriet smiled again and her smiles grew stronger 



CHAPTER VIII


Harriet slept at Hartfield that night  For some weeks past she
had been spending more than half her time there and gradually
getting to have a bed room appropriated to herself and Emma
judged it best in every respect safest and kindest to keep her
with them as much as possible just at present  She was obliged
to go the next morning for an hour or two to Mrs Goddard's
but it was then to be settled that she should return to Hartfield
to make a regular visit of some days 

While she was gone Mr Knightley called and sat some time with
Mr Woodhouse and Emma till Mr Woodhouse who had previously made up
his mind to walk out was persuaded by his daughter not to defer it
and was induced by the entreaties of both though against the scruples
of his own civility to leave Mr Knightley for that purpose 
Mr Knightley who had nothing of ceremony about him was offering
by his short decided answers an amusing contrast to the protracted
apologies and civil hesitations of the other 

Well I believe if you will excuse me Mr Knightley if you
will not consider me as doing a very rude thing I shall take
Emma's advice and go out for a quarter of an hour  As the sun
is out I believe I had better take my three turns while I can 
I treat you without ceremony Mr Knightley  We invalids think we
are privileged people

My dear sir do not make a stranger of me

I leave an excellent substitute in my daughter  Emma will be happy
to entertain you  And therefore I think I will beg your excuse
and take my three turns  my winter walk

You cannot do better sir

I would ask for the pleasure of your company Mr Knightley
but I am a very slow walker and my pace would be tedious to you
and besides you have another long walk before you to Donwell Abbey

Thank you sir thank you I am going this moment myself and I
think the sooner you go the better  I will fetch your greatcoat
and open the garden door for you

Mr Woodhouse at last was off but Mr Knightley instead of being
immediately off likewise sat down again seemingly inclined
for more chat  He began speaking of Harriet and speaking
of her with more voluntary praise than Emma had ever heard before 

I cannot rate her beauty as you do said he but she is a
pretty little creature and I am inclined to think very well of
her disposition  Her character depends upon those she is with
but in good hands she will turn out a valuable woman

I am glad you think so and the good hands I hope may not be wanting

Come said he you are anxious for a compliment so I will
tell you that you have improved her  You have cured her of her
school girl's giggle she really does you credit

Thank you  I should be mortified indeed if I did not believe I
had been of some use but it is not every body who will bestow
praise where they may  You do not often overpower me with it

You are expecting her again you say this morning

Almost every moment  She has been gone longer already than
she intended

Something has happened to delay her some visitors perhaps

Highbury gossips  Tiresome wretches

Harriet may not consider every body tiresome that you would

Emma knew this was too true for contradiction and therefore
said nothing  He presently added with a smile

I do not pretend to fix on times or places but I must tell you
that I have good reason to believe your little friend will soon
hear of something to her advantage

Indeed how so of what sort

A very serious sort I assure you still smiling 

Very serious I can think of but one thing  Who is in love
with her Who makes you their confidant

Emma was more than half in hopes of Mr Elton's having dropt a hint 
Mr Knightley was a sort of general friend and adviser and she knew
Mr Elton looked up to him 

I have reason to think he replied that Harriet Smith will
soon have an offer of marriage and from a most unexceptionable
quarter  Robert Martin is the man  Her visit to Abbey Mill
this summer seems to have done his business  He is desperately
in love and means to marry her

He is very obliging said Emma but is he sure that Harriet
means to marry him

Well well means to make her an offer then  Will that do He came
to the Abbey two evenings ago on purpose to consult me about it 
He knows I have a thorough regard for him and all his family and
I believe considers me as one of his best friends  He came to ask
me whether I thought it would be imprudent in him to settle so early
whether I thought her too young in short whether I approved his
choice altogether having some apprehension perhaps of her being
considered especially since your making so much of her as in a line
of society above him  I was very much pleased with all that he said 
I never hear better sense from any one than Robert Martin 
He always speaks to the purpose open straightforward and very
well judging  He told me every thing his circumstances and plans
and what they all proposed doing in the event of his marriage  He is
an excellent young man both as son and brother  I had no hesitation
in advising him to marry  He proved to me that he could afford it
and that being the case I was convinced he could not do better 
I praised the fair lady too and altogether sent him away very happy 
If he had never esteemed my opinion before he would have thought
highly of me then and I dare say left the house thinking me the
best friend and counsellor man ever had  This happened the night
before last  Now as we may fairly suppose he would not allow
much time to pass before he spoke to the lady and as he does not
appear to have spoken yesterday it is not unlikely that he should
be at Mrs Goddard's to day and she may be detained by a visitor
without thinking him at all a tiresome wretch

Pray Mr Knightley said Emma who had been smiling to herself
through a great part of this speech how do you know that Mr Martin
did not speak yesterday

Certainly replied he surprized I do not absolutely know it
but it may be inferred  Was not she the whole day with you

Come said she I will tell you something in return for what
you have told me  He did speak yesterday  that is he wrote
and was refused

This was obliged to be repeated before it could be believed
and Mr Knightley actually looked red with surprize and displeasure
as he stood up in tall indignation and said

Then she is a greater simpleton than I ever believed her 
What is the foolish girl about

Oh to be sure cried Emma it is always incomprehensible
to a man that a woman should ever refuse an offer of marriage 
A man always imagines a woman to be ready for any body who asks her

Nonsense a man does not imagine any such thing  But what is
the meaning of this Harriet Smith refuse Robert Martin madness
if it is so but I hope you are mistaken

I saw her answer  nothing could be clearer

You saw her answer  you wrote her answer too  Emma this is
your doing  You persuaded her to refuse him

And if I did which however I am far from allowing I should
not feel that I had done wrong  Mr Martin is a very respectable
young man but I cannot admit him to be Harriet's equal and am
rather surprized indeed that he should have ventured to address her 
By your account he does seem to have had some scruples  It is
a pity that they were ever got over

Not Harriet's equal exclaimed Mr Knightley loudly and warmly
and with calmer asperity added a few moments afterwards No he
is not her equal indeed for he is as much her superior in sense
as in situation  Emma your infatuation about that girl blinds you 
What are Harriet Smith's claims either of birth nature or education
to any connexion higher than Robert Martin She is the natural
daughter of nobody knows whom with probably no settled provision
at all and certainly no respectable relations  She is known only
as parlour boarder at a common school  She is not a sensible girl
nor a girl of any information  She has been taught nothing useful
and is too young and too simple to have acquired any thing herself 
At her age she can have no experience and with her little wit
is not very likely ever to have any that can avail her 
She is pretty and she is good tempered and that is all 
My only scruple in advising the match was on his account as being
beneath his deserts and a bad connexion for him  I felt that
as to fortune in all probability he might do much better and that as
to a rational companion or useful helpmate he could not do worse 
But I could not reason so to a man in love and was willing
to trust to there being no harm in her to her having that sort
of disposition which in good hands like his might be easily led
aright and turn out very well  The advantage of the match I felt
to be all on her side and had not the smallest doubt nor have I now
that there would be a general cry out upon her extreme good luck 
Even your satisfaction I made sure of  It crossed my mind immediately
that you would not regret your friend's leaving Highbury for the
sake of her being settled so well  I remember saying to myself
Even Emma with all her partiality for Harriet will think this a
good match

I cannot help wondering at your knowing so little of Emma as to say
any such thing  What think a farmer and with all his sense and all
his merit Mr Martin is nothing more a good match for my intimate
friend Not regret her leaving Highbury for the sake of marrying
a man whom I could never admit as an acquaintance of my own I
wonder you should think it possible for me to have such feelings 
I assure you mine are very different  I must think your statement
by no means fair  You are not just to Harriet's claims 
They would be estimated very differently by others as well as myself
Mr Martin may be the richest of the two but he is undoubtedly
her inferior as to rank in society  The sphere in which she moves
is much above his  It would be a degradation

A degradation to illegitimacy and ignorance to be married
to a respectable intelligent gentleman farmer

As to the circumstances of her birth though in a legal sense
she may be called Nobody it will not hold in common sense 
She is not to pay for the offence of others by being held below
the level of those with whom she is brought up  There can scarcely
be a doubt that her father is a gentleman  and a gentleman of
fortune  Her allowance is very liberal nothing has ever been grudged
for her improvement or comfort  That she is a gentleman's daughter
is indubitable to me that she associates with gentlemen's daughters
no one I apprehend will deny  She is superior to Mr Robert Martin

Whoever might be her parents said Mr Knightley whoever may
have had the charge of her it does not appear to have been any part
of their plan to introduce her into what you would call good society 
After receiving a very indifferent education she is left in
Mrs Goddard's hands to shift as she can  to move in short
in Mrs Goddard's line to have Mrs Goddard's acquaintance 
Her friends evidently thought this good enough for her and it was
good enough  She desired nothing better herself  Till you chose
to turn her into a friend her mind had no distaste for her own set
nor any ambition beyond it  She was as happy as possible with the
Martins in the summer  She had no sense of superiority then 
If she has it now you have given it  You have been no friend to
Harriet Smith Emma  Robert Martin would never have proceeded so far
if he had not felt persuaded of her not being disinclined to him 
I know him well  He has too much real feeling to address any
woman on the haphazard of selfish passion  And as to conceit
he is the farthest from it of any man I know  Depend upon it he
had encouragement

It was most convenient to Emma not to make a direct reply to this
assertion she chose rather to take up her own line of the subject again 

You are a very warm friend to Mr Martin but as I said before
are unjust to Harriet  Harriet's claims to marry well are not
so contemptible as you represent them  She is not a clever girl
but she has better sense than you are aware of and does not
deserve to have her understanding spoken of so slightingly 
Waiving that point however and supposing her to be as you
describe her only pretty and good natured let me tell you that in
the degree she possesses them they are not trivial recommendations
to the world in general for she is in fact a beautiful girl
and must be thought so by ninety nine people out of an hundred
and till it appears that men are much more philosophic on the subject
of beauty than they are generally supposed till they do fall
in love with well informed minds instead of handsome faces a girl
with such loveliness as Harriet has a certainty of being admired
and sought after of having the power of chusing from among many
consequently a claim to be nice  Her good nature too is not so very
slight a claim comprehending as it does real thorough sweetness
of temper and manner a very humble opinion of herself and a great
readiness to be pleased with other people  I am very much mistaken
if your sex in general would not think such beauty and such temper
the highest claims a woman could possess

Upon my word Emma to hear you abusing the reason you have
is almost enough to make me think so too  Better be without sense
than misapply it as you do

To be sure cried she playfully  I know that is the feeling
of you all  I know that such a girl as Harriet is exactly
what every man delights in  what at once bewitches his senses
and satisfies his judgment  Oh Harriet may pick and chuse 
Were you yourself ever to marry she is the very woman for you 
And is she at seventeen just entering into life just beginning
to be known to be wondered at because she does not accept the first
offer she receives No  pray let her have time to look about her

I have always thought it a very foolish intimacy said Mr Knightley
presently though I have kept my thoughts to myself but I now
perceive that it will be a very unfortunate one for Harriet 
You will puff her up with such ideas of her own beauty and of what
she has a claim to that in a little while nobody within her
reach will be good enough for her  Vanity working on a weak head
produces every sort of mischief  Nothing so easy as for a young lady
to raise her expectations too high  Miss Harriet Smith may not find
offers of marriage flow in so fast though she is a very pretty girl 
Men of sense whatever you may chuse to say do not want silly wives 
Men of family would not be very fond of connecting themselves
with a girl of such obscurity   and most prudent men would be
afraid of the inconvenience and disgrace they might be involved in
when the mystery of her parentage came to be revealed  Let her marry
Robert Martin and she is safe respectable and happy for ever
but if you encourage her to expect to marry greatly and teach
her to be satisfied with nothing less than a man of consequence
and large fortune she may be a parlour boarder at Mrs Goddard's
all the rest of her life  or at least for Harriet Smith is a
girl who will marry somebody or other till she grow desperate
and is glad to catch at the old writing master's son

We think so very differently on this point Mr Knightley
that there can be no use in canvassing it  We shall only be making
each other more angry  But as to my letting her marry Robert Martin
it is impossible she has refused him and so decidedly I think
as must prevent any second application  She must abide by the evil
of having refused him whatever it may be and as to the refusal itself
I will not pretend to say that I might not influence her a little
but I assure you there was very little for me or for any body to do 
His appearance is so much against him and his manner so bad
that if she ever were disposed to favour him she is not now 
I can imagine that before she had seen any body superior
she might tolerate him  He was the brother of her friends
and he took pains to please her and altogether having seen
nobody better that must have been his great assistant
she might not while she was at Abbey Mill find him disagreeable 
But the case is altered now  She knows now what gentlemen are
and nothing but a gentleman in education and manner has any chance
with Harriet

Nonsense errant nonsense as ever was talked cried Mr Knightley  Robert
Martin's manners have sense sincerity and good humour to recommend
them and his mind has more true gentility than Harriet Smith could understand

Emma made no answer and tried to look cheerfully unconcerned but was
really feeling uncomfortable and wanting him very much to be gone 
She did not repent what she had done she still thought herself
a better judge of such a point of female right and refinement than he
could be but yet she had a sort of habitual respect for his judgment
in general which made her dislike having it so loudly against her
and to have him sitting just opposite to her in angry state
was very disagreeable  Some minutes passed in this unpleasant silence
with only one attempt on Emma's side to talk of the weather
but he made no answer  He was thinking  The result of his thoughts
appeared at last in these words 

Robert Martin has no great loss  if he can but think so and I
hope it will not be long before he does  Your views for Harriet
are best known to yourself but as you make no secret of your love
of match making it is fair to suppose that views and plans
and projects you have  and as a friend I shall just hint to you
that if Elton is the man I think it will be all labour in vain

Emma laughed and disclaimed  He continued

Depend upon it Elton will not do  Elton is a very good sort of man
and a very respectable vicar of Highbury but not at all likely
to make an imprudent match  He knows the value of a good income
as well as any body  Elton may talk sentimentally but he will
act rationally  He is as well acquainted with his own claims as you
can be with Harriet's He knows that he is a very handsome young man
and a great favourite wherever he goes and from his general way
of talking in unreserved moments when there are only men present
I am convinced that he does not mean to throw himself away 
I have heard him speak with great animation of a large family
of young ladies that his sisters are intimate with who have all
twenty thousand pounds apiece

I am very much obliged to you said Emma laughing again 
If I had set my heart on Mr Elton's marrying Harriet it would
have been very kind to open my eyes but at present I only want
to keep Harriet to myself  I have done with match making indeed 
I could never hope to equal my own doings at Randalls  I shall leave
off while I am well

Good morning to you  said he rising and walking off abruptly 
He was very much vexed  He felt the disappointment of the young man
and was mortified to have been the means of promoting it by the
sanction he had given and the part which he was persuaded Emma had
taken in the affair was provoking him exceedingly 

Emma remained in a state of vexation too but there was more
indistinctness in the causes of her's than in his  She did not always
feel so absolutely satisfied with herself so entirely convinced that
her opinions were right and her adversary's wrong as Mr Knightley 
He walked off in more complete self approbation than he left for her 
She was not so materially cast down however but that a little
time and the return of Harriet were very adequate restoratives 
Harriet's staying away so long was beginning to make her uneasy 
The possibility of the young man's coming to Mrs Goddard's
that morning and meeting with Harriet and pleading his own cause
gave alarming ideas  The dread of such a failure after all became the
prominent uneasiness and when Harriet appeared and in very good spirits
and without having any such reason to give for her long absence
she felt a satisfaction which settled her with her own mind
and convinced her that let Mr Knightley think or say what he would
she had done nothing which woman's friendship and woman's feelings
would not justify 

He had frightened her a little about Mr Elton but when she considered
that Mr Knightley could not have observed him as she had done
neither with the interest nor she must be allowed to tell herself
in spite of Mr Knightley's pretensions with the skill of such
an observer on such a question as herself that he had spoken it
hastily and in anger she was able to believe that he had rather
said what he wished resentfully to be true than what he knew
any thing about  He certainly might have heard Mr Elton speak
with more unreserve than she had ever done and Mr Elton might not
be of an imprudent inconsiderate disposition as to money matters
he might naturally be rather attentive than otherwise to them
but then Mr Knightley did not make due allowance for the influence
of a strong passion at war with all interested motives  Mr Knightley
saw no such passion and of course thought nothing of its effects
but she saw too much of it to feel a doubt of its overcoming any
hesitations that a reasonable prudence might originally suggest
and more than a reasonable becoming degree of prudence she was very
sure did not belong to Mr Elton 

Harriet's cheerful look and manner established hers she came back
not to think of Mr Martin but to talk of Mr Elton  Miss Nash
had been telling her something which she repeated immediately
with great delight  Mr Perry had been to Mrs Goddard's to attend
a sick child and Miss Nash had seen him and he had told Miss Nash
that as he was coming back yesterday from Clayton Park he had met
Mr Elton and found to his great surprize that Mr Elton was
actually on his road to London and not meaning to return till
the morrow though it was the whist club night which he had been
never known to miss before and Mr Perry had remonstrated with him
about it and told him how shabby it was in him their best player
to absent himself and tried very much to persuade him to put off
his journey only one day but it would not do Mr Elton had been
determined to go on and had said in a very particular way indeed
that he was going on business which he would not put off for any
inducement in the world and something about a very enviable commission
and being the bearer of something exceedingly precious  Mr Perry
could not quite understand him but he was very sure there must
be a lady in the case and he told him so and Mr Elton only
looked very conscious and smiling and rode off in great spirits 
Miss Nash had told her all this and had talked a great deal more
about Mr Elton and said looking so very significantly at her
that she did not pretend to understand what his business might be
but she only knew that any woman whom Mr Elton could prefer
she should think the luckiest woman in the world for beyond a doubt
Mr Elton had not his equal for beauty or agreeableness



CHAPTER IX


Mr Knightley might quarrel with her but Emma could not quarrel
with herself  He was so much displeased that it was longer than
usual before he came to Hartfield again and when they did meet
his grave looks shewed that she was not forgiven  She was sorry
but could not repent  On the contrary her plans and proceedings
were more and more justified and endeared to her by the general
appearances of the next few days 

The Picture elegantly framed came safely to hand soon after
Mr Elton's return and being hung over the mantelpiece of the common
sitting room he got up to look at it and sighed out his half sentences
of admiration just as he ought and as for Harriet's feelings they were
visibly forming themselves into as strong and steady an attachment
as her youth and sort of mind admitted  Emma was soon perfectly
satisfied of Mr Martin's being no otherwise remembered than as
he furnished a contrast with Mr Elton of the utmost advantage to the latter 

Her views of improving her little friend's mind by a great deal
of useful reading and conversation had never yet led to more than
a few first chapters and the intention of going on to morrow
It was much easier to chat than to study much pleasanter to let
her imagination range and work at Harriet's fortune than to be
labouring to enlarge her comprehension or exercise it on sober facts
and the only literary pursuit which engaged Harriet at present
the only mental provision she was making for the evening of life
was the collecting and transcribing all the riddles of every sort
that she could meet with into a thin quarto of hot pressed paper
made up by her friend and ornamented with ciphers and trophies 

In this age of literature such collections on a very grand scale
are not uncommon  Miss Nash head teacher at Mrs Goddard's
had written out at least three hundred and Harriet who had taken
the first hint of it from her hoped with Miss Woodhouse's help
to get a great many more  Emma assisted with her invention
memory and taste and as Harriet wrote a very pretty hand
it was likely to be an arrangement of the first order in form
as well as quantity 

Mr Woodhouse was almost as much interested in the business as the girls
and tried very often to recollect something worth their putting in 
So many clever riddles as there used to be when he was young   he
wondered he could not remember them but he hoped he should in time
And it always ended in Kitty a fair but frozen maid

His good friend Perry too whom he had spoken to on the subject
did not at present recollect any thing of the riddle kind
but he had desired Perry to be upon the watch and as he went about
so much something he thought might come from that quarter 

It was by no means his daughter's wish that the intellects of
Highbury in general should be put under requisition  Mr Elton
was the only one whose assistance she asked  He was invited
to contribute any really good enigmas charades or conundrums
that he might recollect and she had the pleasure of seeing him
most intently at work with his recollections and at the same time
as she could perceive most earnestly careful that nothing ungallant
nothing that did not breathe a compliment to the sex should pass
his lips  They owed to him their two or three politest puzzles
and the joy and exultation with which at last he recalled
and rather sentimentally recited that well known charade

    My first doth affliction denote
      Which my second is destin'd to feel
    And my whole is the best antidote
      That affliction to soften and heal  

made her quite sorry to acknowledge that they had transcribed it
some pages ago already 

Why will not you write one yourself for us Mr Elton said she
that is the only security for its freshness and nothing could be
easier to you

Oh no he had never written hardly ever any thing of the kind
in his life  The stupidest fellow He was afraid not even Miss
Woodhouse  he stopt a moment   or Miss Smith could inspire him

The very next day however produced some proof of inspiration 
He called for a few moments just to leave a piece of paper on the
table containing as he said a charade which a friend of his had
addressed to a young lady the object of his admiration but which
from his manner Emma was immediately convinced must be his own 

I do not offer it for Miss Smith's collection said he 
Being my friend's I have no right to expose it in any degree
to the public eye but perhaps you may not dislike looking at it

The speech was more to Emma than to Harriet which Emma
could understand  There was deep consciousness about him
and he found it easier to meet her eye than her friend's
He was gone the next moment  after another moment's pause

Take it said Emma smiling and pushing the paper towards
Harriet  it is for you  Take your own

But Harriet was in a tremor and could not touch it and Emma
never loth to be first was obliged to examine it herself 

        To Miss  

          CHARADE 

    My first displays the wealth and pomp of kings
      Lords of the earth their luxury and ease
    Another view of man my second brings
      Behold him there the monarch of the seas

    But ah united what reverse we have
      Man's boasted power and freedom all are flown
    Lord of the earth and sea he bends a slave
      And woman lovely woman reigns alone 

      Thy ready wit the word will soon supply
      May its approval beam in that soft eye

She cast her eye over it pondered caught the meaning read it through
again to be quite certain and quite mistress of the lines and then
passing it to Harriet sat happily smiling and saying to herself
while Harriet was puzzling over the paper in all the confusion
of hope and dulness Very well Mr Elton very well indeed 
I have read worse charades  Courtship  a very good hint  I give
you credit for it  This is feeling your way  This is saying very
plainly   Pray Miss Smith give me leave to pay my addresses to you 
Approve my charade and my intentions in the same glance

      May its approval beam in that soft eye

Harriet exactly  Soft is the very word for her eye  of all epithets
the justest that could be given 

      Thy ready wit the word will soon supply 

Humph  Harriet's ready wit All the better  A man must be very much
in love indeed to describe her so  Ah Mr Knightley I wish
you had the benefit of this I think this would convince you 
For once in your life you would be obliged to own yourself mistaken 
An excellent charade indeed and very much to the purpose 
Things must come to a crisis soon now

She was obliged to break off from these very pleasant observations
which were otherwise of a sort to run into great length by the
eagerness of Harriet's wondering questions 

What can it be Miss Woodhouse  what can it be I have not an idea  I
cannot guess it in the least  What can it possibly be Do try
to find it out Miss Woodhouse  Do help me  I never saw any thing
so hard  Is it kingdom I wonder who the friend was  and who could
be the young lady  Do you think it is a good one Can it be woman

      And woman lovely woman reigns alone 

Can it be Neptune

      Behold him there the monarch of the seas

Or a trident or a mermaid or a shark Oh no shark is only
one syllable  It must be very clever or he would not have brought it 
Oh Miss Woodhouse do you think we shall ever find it out

Mermaids and sharks Nonsense My dear Harriet what are you
thinking of Where would be the use of his bringing us a charade made
by a friend upon a mermaid or a shark Give me the paper and listen 

For Miss            read Miss Smith 

    My first displays the wealth and pomp of kings
      Lords of the earth their luxury and ease 

That is court 

    Another view of man my second brings
      Behold him there the monarch of the seas

That is ship  plain as it can be  Now for the cream 

    But ah united courtship you know what reverse we have
      Man's boasted power and freedom all are flown
    Lord of the earth and sea he bends a slave
      And woman lovely woman reigns alone 

A very proper compliment  and then follows the application
which I think my dear Harriet you cannot find much difficulty
in comprehending  Read it in comfort to yourself  There can
be no doubt of its being written for you and to you

Harriet could not long resist so delightful a persuasion 
She read the concluding lines and was all flutter and happiness 
She could not speak  But she was not wanted to speak  It was enough
for her to feel  Emma spoke for her 

There is so pointed and so particular a meaning in this compliment
said she that I cannot have a doubt as to Mr Elton's intentions 
You are his object   and you will soon receive the completest proof
of it  I thought it must be so  I thought I could not be so deceived
but now it is clear the state of his mind is as clear and decided
as my wishes on the subject have been ever since I knew you 
Yes Harriet just so long have I been wanting the very circumstance
to happen what has happened  I could never tell whether an attachment
between you and Mr Elton were most desirable or most natural 
Its probability and its eligibility have really so equalled each
other I am very happy  I congratulate you my dear Harriet with all
my heart  This is an attachment which a woman may well feel pride
in creating  This is a connexion which offers nothing but good 
It will give you every thing that you want  consideration independence
a proper home  it will fix you in the centre of all your real friends
close to Hartfield and to me and confirm our intimacy for ever 
This Harriet is an alliance which can never raise a blush in either
of us

Dear Miss Woodhouse  and Dear Miss Woodhouse was all that Harriet
with many tender embraces could articulate at first but when they
did arrive at something more like conversation it was sufficiently
clear to her friend that she saw felt anticipated and remembered
just as she ought  Mr Elton's superiority had very ample acknowledgment 

Whatever you say is always right cried Harriet and therefore
I suppose and believe and hope it must be so but otherwise I could
not have imagined it  It is so much beyond any thing I deserve 
Mr Elton who might marry any body There cannot be two opinions
about him  He is so very superior  Only think of those sweet
verses  To Miss          Dear me how clever  Could it really
be meant for me

I cannot make a question or listen to a question about that 
It is a certainty  Receive it on my judgment  It is a sort
of prologue to the play a motto to the chapter and will be soon
followed by matter of fact prose

It is a sort of thing which nobody could have expected  I am sure
a month ago I had no more idea myself  The strangest things do
take place

When Miss Smiths and Mr Eltons get acquainted  they do indeed  and
really it is strange it is out of the common course that what is
so evidently so palpably desirable  what courts the pre arrangement
of other people should so immediately shape itself into the proper form 
You and Mr Elton are by situation called together you belong
to one another by every circumstance of your respective homes 
Your marrying will be equal to the match at Randalls  There does
seem to be a something in the air of Hartfield which gives love
exactly the right direction and sends it into the very channel
where it ought to flow 

      The course of true love never did run smooth  

A Hartfield edition of Shakespeare would have a long note on that passage

That Mr Elton should really be in love with me  me of all people
who did not know him to speak to him at Michaelmas And he
the very handsomest man that ever was and a man that every body
looks up to quite like Mr Knightley His company so sought after
that every body says he need not eat a single meal by himself if he
does not chuse it that he has more invitations than there are days
in the week  And so excellent in the Church Miss Nash has put down
all the texts he has ever preached from since he came to Highbury 
Dear me When I look back to the first time I saw him How little
did I think   The two Abbots and I ran into the front room and
peeped through the blind when we heard he was going by and Miss
Nash came and scolded us away and staid to look through herself
however she called me back presently and let me look too
which was very good natured And how beautiful we thought he looked
He was arm in arm with Mr Cole

This is an alliance which whoever  whatever your friends may be
must be agreeable to them provided at least they have common sense
and we are not to be addressing our conduct to fools  If they
are anxious to see you happily married here is a man whose amiable
character gives every assurance of it  if they wish to have you
settled in the same country and circle which they have chosen
to place you in here it will be accomplished and if their only
object is that you should in the common phrase be well married
here is the comfortable fortune the respectable establishment
the rise in the world which must satisfy them

Yes very true  How nicely you talk I love to hear you 
You understand every thing  You and Mr Elton are one as clever
as the other  This charade  If I had studied a twelvemonth
I could never have made any thing like it

I thought he meant to try his skill by his manner of declining
it yesterday

I do think it is without exception the best charade I ever read

I never read one more to the purpose certainly

It is as long again as almost all we have had before

I do not consider its length as particularly in its favour 
Such things in general cannot be too short

Harriet was too intent on the lines to hear  The most satisfactory
comparisons were rising in her mind 

It is one thing said she presently  her cheeks in a glow  to
have very good sense in a common way like every body else
and if there is any thing to say to sit down and write a letter
and say just what you must in a short way and another to write
verses and charades like this

Emma could not have desired a more spirited rejection of Mr Martin's prose 

Such sweet lines continued Harriet  these two last  But
how shall I ever be able to return the paper or say I have found
it out  Oh Miss Woodhouse what can we do about that

Leave it to me  You do nothing  He will be here this evening
I dare say and then I will give it him back and some nonsense
or other will pass between us and you shall not be committed  Your
soft eyes shall chuse their own time for beaming  Trust to me

Oh Miss Woodhouse what a pity that I must not write this beautiful
charade into my book I am sure I have not got one half so good

Leave out the two last lines and there is no reason why you
should not write it into your book

Oh but those two lines are  

  The best of all  Granted  for private enjoyment and for private
enjoyment keep them  They are not at all the less written you know
because you divide them  The couplet does not cease to be nor does
its meaning change  But take it away and all appropriation ceases
and a very pretty gallant charade remains fit for any collection 
Depend upon it he would not like to have his charade slighted
much better than his passion  A poet in love must be encouraged in
both capacities or neither  Give me the book I will write it down
and then there can be no possible reflection on you

Harriet submitted though her mind could hardly separate the parts
so as to feel quite sure that her friend were not writing down
a declaration of love  It seemed too precious an offering for any
degree of publicity 

I shall never let that book go out of my own hands said she 

Very well replied Emma a most natural feeling and the longer
it lasts the better I shall be pleased  But here is my father
coming you will not object to my reading the charade to him 
It will be giving him so much pleasure He loves any thing of
the sort and especially any thing that pays woman a compliment 
He has the tenderest spirit of gallantry towards us all   You must
let me read it to him

Harriet looked grave 

My dear Harriet you must not refine too much upon this
charade  You will betray your feelings improperly if you are
too conscious and too quick and appear to affix more meaning
or even quite all the meaning which may be affixed to it 
Do not be overpowered by such a little tribute of admiration 
If he had been anxious for secrecy he would not have left the paper
while I was by but he rather pushed it towards me than towards you 
Do not let us be too solemn on the business  He has encouragement
enough to proceed without our sighing out our souls over this charade

Oh no  I hope I shall not be ridiculous about it  Do as you please

Mr Woodhouse came in and very soon led to the subject again
by the recurrence of his very frequent inquiry of Well my dears
how does your book go on  Have you got any thing fresh

Yes papa we have something to read you something quite fresh 
A piece of paper was found on the table this morning  dropt
we suppose by a fairy   containing a very pretty charade and we
have just copied it in

She read it to him just as he liked to have any thing read
slowly and distinctly and two or three times over with explanations
of every part as she proceeded   and he was very much pleased and
as she had foreseen especially struck with the complimentary conclusion 

Aye that's very just indeed that's very properly said 
Very true  Woman lovely woman It is such a pretty charade
my dear that I can easily guess what fairy brought it   Nobody
could have written so prettily but you Emma

Emma only nodded and smiled  After a little thinking
and a very tender sigh he added

Ah it is no difficulty to see who you take after Your dear mother
was so clever at all those things If I had but her memory But I
can remember nothing  not even that particular riddle which you
have heard me mention I can only recollect the first stanza
and there are several 

    Kitty a fair but frozen maid
      Kindled a flame I yet deplore
    The hood wink'd boy I called to aid
    Though of his near approach afraid
      So fatal to my suit before 

And that is all that I can recollect of it  but it is very clever
all the way through  But I think my dear you said you had got it

Yes papa it is written out in our second page  We copied it
from the Elegant Extracts  It was Garrick's you know

Aye very true  I wish I could recollect more of it 

    Kitty a fair but frozen maid 

The name makes me think of poor Isabella for she was very near
being christened Catherine after her grandmama  I hope we shall
have her here next week  Have you thought my dear where you
shall put her  and what room there will be for the children

Oh yes  she will have her own room of course the room she always
has  and there is the nursery for the children  just as usual
you know  Why should there be any change

I do not know my dear  but it is so long since she was here  not
since last Easter and then only for a few days  Mr John Knightley's
being a lawyer is very inconvenient  Poor Isabella  she is sadly
taken away from us all  and how sorry she will be when she comes
not to see Miss Taylor here

She will not be surprized papa at least

I do not know my dear  I am sure I was very much surprized
when I first heard she was going to be married

We must ask Mr and Mrs Weston to dine with us while Isabella
is here

Yes my dear if there is time  But  in a very depressed tone  she
is coming for only one week  There will not be time for any thing

It is unfortunate that they cannot stay longer  but it seems a case
of necessity  Mr John Knightley must be in town again on the 28th
and we ought to be thankful papa that we are to have the whole
of the time they can give to the country that two or three days
are not to be taken out for the Abbey  Mr Knightley promises
to give up his claim this Christmas   though you know it is longer
since they were with him than with us

It would be very hard indeed my dear if poor Isabella were
to be anywhere but at Hartfield

Mr Woodhouse could never allow for Mr Knightley's claims on
his brother or any body's claims on Isabella except his own 
He sat musing a little while and then said

But I do not see why poor Isabella should be obliged to go back
so soon though he does  I think Emma I shall try and persuade
her to stay longer with us  She and the children might stay very well

Ah papa  that is what you never have been able to accomplish
and I do not think you ever will  Isabella cannot bear to stay
behind her husband

This was too true for contradiction  Unwelcome as it was Mr Woodhouse
could only give a submissive sigh and as Emma saw his spirits
affected by the idea of his daughter's attachment to her husband
she immediately led to such a branch of the subject as must raise them 

Harriet must give us as much of her company as she can while
my brother and sister are here  I am sure she will be pleased
with the children  We are very proud of the children are not we
papa I wonder which she will think the handsomest Henry or John

Aye I wonder which she will  Poor little dears how glad they
will be to come  They are very fond of being at Hartfield Harriet

I dare say they are sir  I am sure I do not know who is not

Henry is a fine boy but John is very like his mama  Henry is the eldest
he was named after me not after his father  John the second
is named after his father  Some people are surprized I believe
that the eldest was not but Isabella would have him called Henry
which I thought very pretty of her  And he is a very clever boy
indeed  They are all remarkably clever and they have so many
pretty ways  They will come and stand by my chair and say
Grandpapa can you give me a bit of string and once Henry asked me
for a knife but I told him knives were only made for grandpapas 
I think their father is too rough with them very often

He appears rough to you said Emma because you are so very
gentle yourself but if you could compare him with other papas
you would not think him rough  He wishes his boys to be active and hardy
and if they misbehave can give them a sharp word now and then
but he is an affectionate father  certainly Mr John Knightley
is an affectionate father  The children are all fond of him

And then their uncle comes in and tosses them up to the ceiling
in a very frightful way

But they like it papa there is nothing they like so much 
It is such enjoyment to them that if their uncle did not lay down
the rule of their taking turns whichever began would never give way
to the other

Well I cannot understand it

That is the case with us all papa  One half of the world cannot
understand the pleasures of the other

Later in the morning and just as the girls were going to separate
in preparation for the regular four o'clock dinner the hero
of this inimitable charade walked in again  Harriet turned away
but Emma could receive him with the usual smile and her quick eye
soon discerned in his the consciousness of having made a push  of
having thrown a die and she imagined he was come to see how it
might turn up  His ostensible reason however was to ask whether
Mr Woodhouse's party could be made up in the evening without him
or whether he should be in the smallest degree necessary at Hartfield 
If he were every thing else must give way but otherwise his friend
Cole had been saying so much about his dining with him  had made
such a point of it that he had promised him conditionally to come 

Emma thanked him but could not allow of his disappointing his
friend on their account her father was sure of his rubber 
He re urged   she re declined and he seemed then about to make
his bow when taking the paper from the table she returned it  

Oh here is the charade you were so obliging as to leave with us
thank you for the sight of it  We admired it so much that I have
ventured to write it into Miss Smith's collection  Your friend
will not take it amiss I hope  Of course I have not transcribed
beyond the first eight lines

Mr Elton certainly did not very well know what to say 
He looked rather doubtingly  rather confused said something about
honour  glanced at Emma and at Harriet and then seeing the book
open on the table took it up and examined it very attentively 
With the view of passing off an awkward moment Emma smilingly said

You must make my apologies to your friend but so good a charade
must not be confined to one or two  He may be sure of every woman's
approbation while he writes with such gallantry

I have no hesitation in saying replied Mr Elton though hesitating
a good deal while he spoke I have no hesitation in saying  at
least if my friend feels at all as I do  I have not the smallest
doubt that could he see his little effusion honoured as I see it
looking at the book again and replacing it on the table he
would consider it as the proudest moment of his life

After this speech he was gone as soon as possible  Emma could not
think it too soon for with all his good and agreeable qualities
there was a sort of parade in his speeches which was very apt
to incline her to laugh  She ran away to indulge the inclination
leaving the tender and the sublime of pleasure to Harriet's share 



CHAPTER X


Though now the middle of December there had yet been no weather
to prevent the young ladies from tolerably regular exercise
and on the morrow Emma had a charitable visit to pay to a poor
sick family who lived a little way out of Highbury

Their road to this detached cottage was down Vicarage Lane a lane
leading at right angles from the broad though irregular main street
of the place and as may be inferred containing the blessed abode
of Mr Elton  A few inferior dwellings were first to be passed
and then about a quarter of a mile down the lane rose the Vicarage
an old and not very good house almost as close to the road as it
could be  It had no advantage of situation but had been very much
smartened up by the present proprietor and such as it was
there could be no possibility of the two friends passing it without
a slackened pace and observing eyes  Emma's remark was  

There it is  There go you and your riddle book one of these days  
Harriet's was  

Oh what a sweet house  How very beautiful  There are the yellow
curtains that Miss Nash admires so much

I do not often walk this way now said Emma as they proceeded
but then there will be an inducement and I shall gradually get
intimately acquainted with all the hedges gates pools and pollards
of this part of Highbury

Harriet she found had never in her life been within side the Vicarage
and her curiosity to see it was so extreme that considering exteriors
and probabilities Emma could only class it as a proof of love
with Mr Elton's seeing ready wit in her

I wish we could contrive it said she but I cannot think
of any tolerable pretence for going in  no servant that I want
to inquire about of his housekeeper  no message from my father

She pondered but could think of nothing  After a mutual silence
of some minutes Harriet thus began again  

I do so wonder Miss Woodhouse that you should not be married
or going to be married so charming as you are  

Emma laughed and replied

My being charming Harriet is not quite enough to induce me to marry
I must find other people charming  one other person at least 
And I am not only not going to be married at present but have
very little intention of ever marrying at all

Ah  so you say but I cannot believe it

I must see somebody very superior to any one I have seen yet
to be tempted Mr Elton you know recollecting herself
is out of the question  and I do not wish to see any such person 
I would rather not be tempted  I cannot really change for the better 
If I were to marry I must expect to repent it

Dear me  it is so odd to hear a woman talk so  

I have none of the usual inducements of women to marry 
Were I to fall in love indeed it would be a different thing
but I never have been in love it is not my way or my nature
and I do not think I ever shall  And without love I am sure I
should be a fool to change such a situation as mine  Fortune I
do not want employment I do not want consequence I do not want 
I believe few married women are half as much mistress of their
husband's house as I am of Hartfield and never never could I expect
to be so truly beloved and important so always first and always
right in any man's eyes as I am in my father's

But then to be an old maid at last like Miss Bates

That is as formidable an image as you could present Harriet and if I
thought I should ever be like Miss Bates so silly  so satisfied  
so smiling  so prosing  so undistinguishing and unfastidious  
and so apt to tell every thing relative to every body about me
I would marry to morrow But between us I am convinced there never
can be any likeness except in being unmarried

But still you will be an old maid and that's so dreadful

Never mind Harriet I shall not be a poor old maid and it is
poverty only which makes celibacy contemptible to a generous public 
A single woman with a very narrow income must be a ridiculous
disagreeable old maid the proper sport of boys and girls
but a single woman of good fortune is always respectable
and may be as sensible and pleasant as any body else  And the
distinction is not quite so much against the candour and common
sense of the world as appears at first for a very narrow income
has a tendency to contract the mind and sour the temper 
Those who can barely live and who live perforce in a very small
and generally very inferior society may well be illiberal and cross 
This does not apply however to Miss Bates she is only too good
natured and too silly to suit me but in general she is very
much to the taste of every body though single and though poor 
Poverty certainly has not contracted her mind  I really believe
if she had only a shilling in the world she would be very likely
to give away sixpence of it and nobody is afraid of her  that is a
great charm

Dear me but what shall you do how shall you employ yourself
when you grow old

If I know myself Harriet mine is an active busy mind with a great
many independent resources and I do not perceive why I should be
more in want of employment at forty or fifty than one and twenty
Woman's usual occupations of hand and mind will be as open to me then
as they are now or with no important variation  If I draw less
I shall read more if I give up music I shall take to carpet work
And as for objects of interest objects for the affections
which is in truth the great point of inferiority the want of which
is really the great evil to be avoided in not marrying I shall
be very well off with all the children of a sister I love so much
to care about  There will be enough of them in all probability
to supply every sort of sensation that declining life can need 
There will be enough for every hope and every fear and though my
attachment to none can equal that of a parent it suits my ideas
of comfort better than what is warmer and blinder  My nephews
and nieces  I shall often have a niece with me

Do you know Miss Bates's niece  That is I know you must have
seen her a hundred times  but are you acquainted

Oh yes we are always forced to be acquainted whenever she comes
to Highbury  By the bye that is almost enough to put one out
of conceit with a niece  Heaven forbid at least that I should
ever bore people half so much about all the Knightleys together
as she does about Jane Fairfax  One is sick of the very name
of Jane Fairfax  Every letter from her is read forty times over
her compliments to all friends go round and round again and if she
does but send her aunt the pattern of a stomacher or knit a pair
of garters for her grandmother one hears of nothing else for a month 
I wish Jane Fairfax very well but she tires me to death

They were now approaching the cottage and all idle topics
were superseded  Emma was very compassionate and the distresses
of the poor were as sure of relief from her personal attention
and kindness her counsel and her patience as from her purse 
She understood their ways could allow for their ignorance and
their temptations had no romantic expectations of extraordinary
virtue from those for whom education had done so little entered into
their troubles with ready sympathy and always gave her assistance
with as much intelligence as good will  In the present instance
it was sickness and poverty together which she came to visit
and after remaining there as long as she could give comfort or advice
she quitted the cottage with such an impression of the scene
as made her say to Harriet as they walked away

These are the sights Harriet to do one good  How trifling they
make every thing else appear  I feel now as if I could think of
nothing but these poor creatures all the rest of the day and yet
who can say how soon it may all vanish from my mind

Very true said Harriet  Poor creatures one can think
of nothing else

And really I do not think the impression will soon be over
said Emma as she crossed the low hedge and tottering footstep
which ended the narrow slippery path through the cottage garden
and brought them into the lane again  I do not think it will
stopping to look once more at all the outward wretchedness of the place
and recall the still greater within

Oh dear no said her companion

They walked on  The lane made a slight bend and when that bend
was passed Mr Elton was immediately in sight and so near
as to give Emma time only to say farther

Ah  Harriet here comes a very sudden trial of our stability
in good thoughts  Well smiling I hope it may be allowed that
if compassion has produced exertion and relief to the sufferers
it has done all that is truly important  If we feel for the wretched
enough to do all we can for them the rest is empty sympathy
only distressing to ourselves

Harriet could just answer Oh dear yes before the gentleman
joined them  The wants and sufferings of the poor family however
were the first subject on meeting  He had been going to call
on them  His visit he would now defer but they had a very
interesting parley about what could be done and should be done 
Mr Elton then turned back to accompany them

To fall in with each other on such an errand as this thought Emma
to meet in a charitable scheme this will bring a great increase
of love on each side  I should not wonder if it were to bring
on the declaration  It must if I were not here  I wish I were
anywhere else

Anxious to separate herself from them as far as she could she soon
afterwards took possession of a narrow footpath a little raised
on one side of the lane leaving them together in the main road 
But she had not been there two minutes when she found that Harriet's
habits of dependence and imitation were bringing her up too and that
in short they would both be soon after her  This would not do
she immediately stopped under pretence of having some alteration
to make in the lacing of her half boot and stooping down in complete
occupation of the footpath begged them to have the goodness to walk on
and she would follow in half a minute  They did as they were desired
and by the time she judged it reasonable to have done with her boot
she had the comfort of farther delay in her power being overtaken
by a child from the cottage setting out according to orders
with her pitcher to fetch broth from Hartfield  To walk by the side
of this child and talk to and question her was the most natural
thing in the world or would have been the most natural had she been
acting just then without design and by this means the others were
still able to keep ahead without any obligation of waiting for her 
She gained on them however involuntarily  the child's pace was quick
and theirs rather slow and she was the more concerned at it
from their being evidently in a conversation which interested them 
Mr Elton was speaking with animation Harriet listening with a very
pleased attention and Emma having sent the child on was beginning
to think how she might draw back a little more when they both
looked around and she was obliged to join them

Mr Elton was still talking still engaged in some interesting detail
and Emma experienced some disappointment when she found that he
was only giving his fair companion an account of the yesterday's
party at his friend Cole's and that she was come in herself for
the Stilton cheese the north Wiltshire the butter the cellery
the beet root and all the dessert

This would soon have led to something better of course was her
consoling reflection any thing interests between those who love
and any thing will serve as introduction to what is near the heart 
If I could but have kept longer away

They now walked on together quietly till within view of the vicarage
pales when a sudden resolution of at least getting Harriet into
the house made her again find something very much amiss about her boot
and fall behind to arrange it once more  She then broke the lace
off short and dexterously throwing it into a ditch was presently
obliged to entreat them to stop and acknowledged her inability to
put herself to rights so as to be able to walk home in tolerable comfort

Part of my lace is gone said she and I do not know how I am
to contrive  I really am a most troublesome companion to you both
but I hope I am not often so ill equipped Mr Elton I must beg
leave to stop at your house and ask your housekeeper for a bit
of ribband or string or any thing just to keep my boot on

Mr Elton looked all happiness at this proposition and nothing
could exceed his alertness and attention in conducting them into
his house and endeavouring to make every thing appear to advantage 
The room they were taken into was the one he chiefly occupied
and looking forwards behind it was another with which it immediately
communicated the door between them was open and Emma passed
into it with the housekeeper to receive her assistance in the most
comfortable manner  She was obliged to leave the door ajar as she
found it but she fully intended that Mr Elton should close it 
It was not closed however it still remained ajar but by engaging
the housekeeper in incessant conversation she hoped to make it
practicable for him to chuse his own subject in the adjoining room 
For ten minutes she could hear nothing but herself  It could
be protracted no longer  She was then obliged to be finished
and make her appearance

The lovers were standing together at one of the windows  It had a
most favourable aspect and for half a minute Emma felt the glory
of having schemed successfully  But it would not do he had not
come to the point  He had been most agreeable most delightful
he had told Harriet that he had seen them go by and had purposely
followed them other little gallantries and allusions had been dropt
but nothing serious

Cautious very cautious thought Emma he advances inch by inch
and will hazard nothing till he believes himself secure

Still however though every thing had not been accomplished
by her ingenious device she could not but flatter herself
that it had been the occasion of much present enjoyment to both
and must be leading them forward to the great event



CHAPTER XI


Mr Elton must now be left to himself  It was no longer in Emma's
power to superintend his happiness or quicken his measures 
The coming of her sister's family was so very near at hand
that first in anticipation and then in reality it became henceforth
her prime object of interest and during the ten days of their stay
at Hartfield it was not to be expected  she did not herself expect  
that any thing beyond occasional fortuitous assistance could
be afforded by her to the lovers  They might advance rapidly
if they would however they must advance somehow or other whether
they would or no  She hardly wished to have more leisure for them 
There are people who the more you do for them the less they will
do for themselves

Mr and Mrs John Knightley from having been longer than usual
absent from Surry were exciting of course rather more than the
usual interest  Till this year every long vacation since their
marriage had been divided between Hartfield and Donwell Abbey
but all the holidays of this autumn had been given to sea bathing
for the children and it was therefore many months since they had
been seen in a regular way by their Surry connexions or seen at all
by Mr Woodhouse who could not be induced to get so far as London
even for poor Isabella's sake and who consequently was now most
nervously and apprehensively happy in forestalling this too short visit

He thought much of the evils of the journey for her and not a
little of the fatigues of his own horses and coachman who were to
bring some of the party the last half of the way but his alarms
were needless the sixteen miles being happily accomplished
and Mr and Mrs John Knightley their five children and a competent
number of nursery maids all reaching Hartfield in safety 
The bustle and joy of such an arrival the many to be talked to
welcomed encouraged and variously dispersed and disposed of
produced a noise and confusion which his nerves could not have borne
under any other cause nor have endured much longer even for this
but the ways of Hartfield and the feelings of her father were
so respected by Mrs John Knightley that in spite of maternal
solicitude for the immediate enjoyment of her little ones
and for their having instantly all the liberty and attendance
all the eating and drinking and sleeping and playing
which they could possibly wish for without the smallest delay
the children were never allowed to be long a disturbance to him
either in themselves or in any restless attendance on them

Mrs John Knightley was a pretty elegant little woman of gentle
quiet manners and a disposition remarkably amiable and affectionate
wrapt up in her family a devoted wife a doating mother
and so tenderly attached to her father and sister that but for
these higher ties a warmer love might have seemed impossible 
She could never see a fault in any of them  She was not a woman
of strong understanding or any quickness and with this resemblance
of her father she inherited also much of his constitution
was delicate in her own health over careful of that of her children
had many fears and many nerves and was as fond of her own Mr Wingfield
in town as her father could be of Mr Perry  They were alike too
in a general benevolence of temper and a strong habit of regard
for every old acquaintance

Mr John Knightley was a tall gentleman like and very clever man
rising in his profession domestic and respectable in his
private character but with reserved manners which prevented his being
generally pleasing and capable of being sometimes out of humour 
He was not an ill tempered man not so often unreasonably cross
as to deserve such a reproach but his temper was not his
great perfection and indeed with such a worshipping wife
it was hardly possible that any natural defects in it should not
be increased  The extreme sweetness of her temper must hurt his 
He had all the clearness and quickness of mind which she wanted
and he could sometimes act an ungracious or say a severe thing

He was not a great favourite with his fair sister in law Nothing
wrong in him escaped her  She was quick in feeling the little
injuries to Isabella which Isabella never felt herself 
Perhaps she might have passed over more had his manners been
flattering to Isabella's sister but they were only those of a calmly
kind brother and friend without praise and without blindness
but hardly any degree of personal compliment could have made her
regardless of that greatest fault of all in her eyes which he sometimes
fell into the want of respectful forbearance towards her father 
There he had not always the patience that could have been wished 
Mr Woodhouse's peculiarities and fidgetiness were sometimes provoking
him to a rational remonstrance or sharp retort equally ill bestowed
It did not often happen for Mr John Knightley had really a great
regard for his father in law and generally a strong sense of what was
due to him but it was too often for Emma's charity especially as
there was all the pain of apprehension frequently to be endured
though the offence came not  The beginning however of every visit
displayed none but the properest feelings and this being of necessity
so short might be hoped to pass away in unsullied cordiality 
They had not been long seated and composed when Mr Woodhouse
with a melancholy shake of the head and a sigh called his daughter's
attention to the sad change at Hartfield since she had been there last

Ah my dear said he poor Miss Taylor  It is a grievous business

Oh yes sir cried she with ready sympathy how you must
miss her  And dear Emma too  What a dreadful loss to you both  
I have been so grieved for you  I could not imagine how you could
possibly do without her  It is a sad change indeed  But I hope
she is pretty well sir

Pretty well my dear  I hope  pretty well  I do not know
but that the place agrees with her tolerably

Mr John Knightley here asked Emma quietly whether there were any
doubts of the air of Randalls

Oh no  none in the least  I never saw Mrs Weston better in my life  
never looking so well  Papa is only speaking his own regret

Very much to the honour of both was the handsome reply

And do you see her sir tolerably often asked Isabella
in the plaintive tone which just suited her father

Mr Woodhouse hesitated  Not near so often my dear as I could wish

Oh papa we have missed seeing them but one entire day since
they married  Either in the morning or evening of every day
excepting one have we seen either Mr Weston or Mrs Weston
and generally both either at Randalls or here  and as you
may suppose Isabella most frequently here  They are very
very kind in their visits  Mr Weston is really as kind as herself 
Papa if you speak in that melancholy way you will be giving
Isabella a false idea of us all  Every body must be aware that Miss
Taylor must be missed but every body ought also to be assured
that Mr and Mrs Weston do really prevent our missing her by any
means to the extent we ourselves anticipated  which is the exact truth

Just as it should be said Mr John Knightley and just as I hoped
it was from your letters  Her wish of shewing you attention could
not be doubted and his being a disengaged and social man makes it
all easy  I have been always telling you my love that I had no idea
of the change being so very material to Hartfield as you apprehended
and now you have Emma's account I hope you will be satisfied

Why to be sure said Mr Woodhouse  yes certainly  I cannot deny
that Mrs Weston poor Mrs Weston does come and see us pretty often  
but then  she is always obliged to go away again

It would be very hard upon Mr Weston if she did not papa  
You quite forget poor Mr Weston

I think indeed said John Knightley pleasantly that Mr Weston
has some little claim  You and I Emma will venture to take the part
of the poor husband  I being a husband and you not being a wife
the claims of the man may very likely strike us with equal force 
As for Isabella she has been married long enough to see the convenience
of putting all the Mr Westons aside as much as she can

Me my love cried his wife hearing and understanding only in part  
Are you talking about me  I am sure nobody ought to be or can be
a greater advocate for matrimony than I am and if it had not been
for the misery of her leaving Hartfield I should never have thought
of Miss Taylor but as the most fortunate woman in the world
and as to slighting Mr Weston that excellent Mr Weston I think
there is nothing he does not deserve  I believe he is one of the
very best tempered men that ever existed  Excepting yourself
and your brother I do not know his equal for temper  I shall
never forget his flying Henry's kite for him that very windy day
last Easter  and ever since his particular kindness last September
twelvemonth in writing that note at twelve o'clock at night
on purpose to assure me that there was no scarlet fever at Cobham
I have been convinced there could not be a more feeling heart nor
a better man in existence  If any body can deserve him it must be
Miss Taylor

Where is the young man said John Knightley  Has he been here
on this occasion  or has he not

He has not been here yet replied Emma  There was a strong
expectation of his coming soon after the marriage but it ended
in nothing and I have not heard him mentioned lately

But you should tell them of the letter my dear said her father 
He wrote a letter to poor Mrs Weston to congratulate her
and a very proper handsome letter it was  She shewed it to me 
I thought it very well done of him indeed  Whether it was his own idea
you know one cannot tell  He is but young and his uncle perhaps  

My dear papa he is three and twenty You forget how time passes

Three and twenty  is he indeed  Well I could not have thought it  
and he was but two years old when he lost his poor mother  Well
time does fly indeed  and my memory is very bad  However it was
an exceeding good pretty letter and gave Mr and Mrs Weston
a great deal of pleasure  I remember it was written from Weymouth
and dated Sept 28th  and began My dear Madam but I forget
how it went on and it was signed F C Weston Churchill  
I remember that perfectly

How very pleasing and proper of him cried the good hearted Mrs John
Knightley  I have no doubt of his being a most amiable young man 
But how sad it is that he should not live at home with his father 
There is something so shocking in a child's being taken away from his
parents and natural home  I never could comprehend how Mr Weston
could part with him  To give up one's child  I really never
could think well of any body who proposed such a thing to any body else

Nobody ever did think well of the Churchills I fancy
observed Mr John Knightley coolly  But you need not imagine
Mr Weston to have felt what you would feel in giving up Henry
or John  Mr Weston is rather an easy cheerful tempered man
than a man of strong feelings he takes things as he finds them
and makes enjoyment of them somehow or other depending I suspect
much more upon what is called society for his comforts that is
upon the power of eating and drinking and playing whist with his
neighbours five times a week than upon family affection or any
thing that home affords

Emma could not like what bordered on a reflection on Mr Weston
and had half a mind to take it up but she struggled and let
it pass  She would keep the peace if possible and there was
something honourable and valuable in the strong domestic habits
the all sufficiency of home to himself whence resulted her brother's
disposition to look down on the common rate of social intercourse
and those to whom it was important  It had a high claim to forbearance



CHAPTER XII


Mr Knightley was to dine with them  rather against the inclination
of Mr Woodhouse who did not like that any one should share with him
in Isabella's first day  Emma's sense of right however had decided it
and besides the consideration of what was due to each brother
she had particular pleasure from the circumstance of the late
disagreement between Mr Knightley and herself in procuring him
the proper invitation

She hoped they might now become friends again  She thought it
was time to make up  Making up indeed would not do  She certainly
had not been in the wrong and he would never own that he had 
Concession must be out of the question but it was time to appear
to forget that they had ever quarrelled and she hoped it might rather
assist the restoration of friendship that when he came into the room
she had one of the children with her  the youngest a nice little girl
about eight months old who was now making her first visit to Hartfield
and very happy to be danced about in her aunt's arms  It did assist
for though he began with grave looks and short questions he was soon
led on to talk of them all in the usual way and to take the child
out of her arms with all the unceremoniousness of perfect amity 
Emma felt they were friends again and the conviction giving
her at first great satisfaction and then a little sauciness
she could not help saying as he was admiring the baby

What a comfort it is that we think alike about our nephews and nieces 
As to men and women our opinions are sometimes very different
but with regard to these children I observe we never disagree

If you were as much guided by nature in your estimate of men
and women and as little under the power of fancy and whim in your
dealings with them as you are where these children are concerned
we might always think alike

To be sure  our discordancies must always arise from my being
in the wrong

Yes said he smiling  and reason good  I was sixteen years
old when you were born

A material difference then she replied  and no doubt you were
much my superior in judgment at that period of our lives but does
not the lapse of one and twenty years bring our understandings
a good deal nearer

Yes  a good deal nearer

But still not near enough to give me a chance of being right
if we think differently

I have still the advantage of you by sixteen years experience and by
not being a pretty young woman and a spoiled child  Come my dear Emma
let us be friends and say no more about it  Tell your aunt little Emma
that she ought to set you a better example than to be renewing
old grievances and that if she were not wrong before she is now

That's true she cried  very true  Little Emma grow up
a better woman than your aunt  Be infinitely cleverer and not
half so conceited  Now Mr Knightley a word or two more and I
have done  As far as good intentions went we were both right
and I must say that no effects on my side of the argument have yet
proved wrong  I only want to know that Mr Martin is not very
very bitterly disappointed

A man cannot be more so was his short full answer

Ah  Indeed I am very sorry  Come shake hands with me

This had just taken place and with great cordiality when John
Knightley made his appearance and How d'ye do George and John
how are you succeeded in the true English style burying under
a calmness that seemed all but indifference the real attachment
which would have led either of them if requisite to do every thing
for the good of the other

The evening was quiet and conversable as Mr Woodhouse declined
cards entirely for the sake of comfortable talk with his
dear Isabella and the little party made two natural divisions
on one side he and his daughter on the other the two Mr Knightleys
their subjects totally distinct or very rarely mixing  and Emma
only occasionally joining in one or the other

The brothers talked of their own concerns and pursuits but principally
of those of the elder whose temper was by much the most communicative
and who was always the greater talker  As a magistrate he had
generally some point of law to consult John about or at least
some curious anecdote to give and as a farmer as keeping in hand
the home farm at Donwell he had to tell what every field was to bear
next year and to give all such local information as could not fail
of being interesting to a brother whose home it had equally been
the longest part of his life and whose attachments were strong 
The plan of a drain the change of a fence the felling of a tree
and the destination of every acre for wheat turnips or spring corn
was entered into with as much equality of interest by John as his
cooler manners rendered possible and if his willing brother ever
left him any thing to inquire about his inquiries even approached
a tone of eagerness

While they were thus comfortably occupied Mr Woodhouse was enjoying
a full flow of happy regrets and fearful affection with his daughter

My poor dear Isabella said he fondly taking her hand
and interrupting for a few moments her busy labours for some one
of her five children  How long it is how terribly long since you
were here  And how tired you must be after your journey  You must
go to bed early my dear  and I recommend a little gruel to you
before you go  You and I will have a nice basin of gruel together 
My dear Emma suppose we all have a little gruel

Emma could not suppose any such thing knowing as she did
that both the Mr Knightleys were as unpersuadable on that article
as herself  and two basins only were ordered  After a little
more discourse in praise of gruel with some wondering at its
not being taken every evening by every body he proceeded to say
with an air of grave reflection

It was an awkward business my dear your spending the autumn
at South End instead of coming here  I never had much opinion
of the sea air

Mr Wingfield most strenuously recommended it sir  or we
should not have gone  He recommended it for all the children
but particularly for the weakness in little Bella's throat  
both sea air and bathing

Ah my dear but Perry had many doubts about the sea doing her
any good and as to myself I have been long perfectly convinced
though perhaps I never told you so before that the sea is very
rarely of use to any body  I am sure it almost killed me once

Come come cried Emma feeling this to be an unsafe subject I must
beg you not to talk of the sea  It makes me envious and miserable  
I who have never seen it  South End is prohibited if you please 
My dear Isabella I have not heard you make one inquiry about
Mr Perry yet and he never forgets you

Oh good Mr Perry  how is he sir

Why pretty well but not quite well  Poor Perry is bilious
and he has not time to take care of himself  he tells me he has
not time to take care of himself  which is very sad  but he is
always wanted all round the country  I suppose there is not a man
in such practice anywhere  But then there is not so clever a man
any where

And Mrs Perry and the children how are they do the children grow 
I have a great regard for Mr Perry  I hope he will be calling soon 
He will be so pleased to see my little ones

I hope he will be here to morrow for I have a question or two to ask
him about myself of some consequence  And my dear whenever he comes
you had better let him look at little Bella's throat

Oh my dear sir her throat is so much better that I have hardly
any uneasiness about it  Either bathing has been of the greatest
service to her or else it is to be attributed to an excellent
embrocation of Mr Wingfield's which we have been applying
at times ever since August

It is not very likely my dear that bathing should have been
of use to her  and if I had known you were wanting an embrocation
I would have spoken to  

You seem to me to have forgotten Mrs and Miss Bates said Emma
I have not heard one inquiry after them

Oh the good Bateses  I am quite ashamed of myself  but you
mention them in most of your letters  I hope they are quite well 
Good old Mrs Bates  I will call upon her to morrow and take
my children  They are always so pleased to see my children  
And that excellent Miss Bates  such thorough worthy people  
How are they sir

Why pretty well my dear upon the whole  But poor Mrs Bates
had a bad cold about a month ago

How sorry I am  But colds were never so prevalent as they have been
this autumn  Mr Wingfield told me that he has never known them
more general or heavy  except when it has been quite an influenza

That has been a good deal the case my dear but not to the degree
you mention  Perry says that colds have been very general
but not so heavy as he has very often known them in November 
Perry does not call it altogether a sickly season

No I do not know that Mr Wingfield considers it very sickly except  

Ah my poor dear child the truth is that in London it is always
a sickly season  Nobody is healthy in London nobody can be 
It is a dreadful thing to have you forced to live there so far off  
and the air so bad

No indeed  we are not at all in a bad air  Our part of London is
very superior to most others  You must not confound us with London
in general my dear sir  The neighbourhood of Brunswick Square
is very different from almost all the rest  We are so very airy 
I should be unwilling I own to live in any other part of the town  
there is hardly any other that I could be satisfied to have my
children in  but we are so remarkably airy  Mr Wingfield thinks
the vicinity of Brunswick Square decidedly the most favourable as
to air

Ah my dear it is not like Hartfield  You make the best of it  
but after you have been a week at Hartfield you are all of you
different creatures you do not look like the same  Now I cannot say
that I think you are any of you looking well at present

I am sorry to hear you say so sir but I assure you excepting those
little nervous head aches and palpitations which I am never entirely
free from anywhere I am quite well myself and if the children were
rather pale before they went to bed it was only because they were
a little more tired than usual from their journey and the happiness
of coming  I hope you will think better of their looks to morrow
for I assure you Mr Wingfield told me that he did not believe
he had ever sent us off altogether in such good case  I trust
at least that you do not think Mr Knightley looking ill
turning her eyes with affectionate anxiety towards her husband

Middling my dear I cannot compliment you  I think Mr John
Knightley very far from looking well

What is the matter sir  Did you speak to me cried Mr John
Knightley hearing his own name

I am sorry to find my love that my father does not think you
looking well  but I hope it is only from being a little fatigued 
I could have wished however as you know that you had seen
Mr Wingfield before you left home

My dear Isabella  exclaimed he hastily  pray do not concern
yourself about my looks  Be satisfied with doctoring and coddling
yourself and the children and let me look as I chuse

I did not thoroughly understand what you were telling your brother
cried Emma about your friend Mr Graham's intending to have a bailiff
from Scotland to look after his new estate  What will it answer 
Will not the old prejudice be too strong

And she talked in this way so long and successfully that when forced
to give her attention again to her father and sister she had nothing
worse to hear than Isabella's kind inquiry after Jane Fairfax
and Jane Fairfax though no great favourite with her in general
she was at that moment very happy to assist in praising

That sweet amiable Jane Fairfax said Mrs John Knightley  
It is so long since I have seen her except now and then for a moment
accidentally in town  What happiness it must be to her good old
grandmother and excellent aunt when she comes to visit them 
I always regret excessively on dear Emma's account that she cannot
be more at Highbury but now their daughter is married I suppose
Colonel and Mrs Campbell will not be able to part with her at all 
She would be such a delightful companion for Emma

Mr Woodhouse agreed to it all but added

Our little friend Harriet Smith however is just such another
pretty kind of young person  You will like Harriet  Emma could
not have a better companion than Harriet

I am most happy to hear it  but only Jane Fairfax one knows to be
so very accomplished and superior  and exactly Emma's age

This topic was discussed very happily and others succeeded of
similar moment and passed away with similar harmony but the evening
did not close without a little return of agitation  The gruel came
and supplied a great deal to be said  much praise and many comments  
undoubting decision of its wholesomeness for every constitution
and pretty severe Philippics upon the many houses where it was
never met with tolerable  but unfortunately among the failures
which the daughter had to instance the most recent and therefore
most prominent was in her own cook at South End a young woman
hired for the time who never had been able to understand what she
meant by a basin of nice smooth gruel thin but not too thin 
Often as she had wished for and ordered it she had never been able
to get any thing tolerable  Here was a dangerous opening

Ah said Mr Woodhouse shaking his head and fixing his eyes on
her with tender concern  The ejaculation in Emma's ear expressed
Ah there is no end of the sad consequences of your going to
South End  It does not bear talking of  And for a little while
she hoped he would not talk of it and that a silent rumination
might suffice to restore him to the relish of his own smooth gruel 
After an interval of some minutes however he began with

I shall always be very sorry that you went to the sea this autumn
instead of coming here

But why should you be sorry sir  I assure you it did the children
a great deal of good

And moreover if you must go to the sea it had better not
have been to South End  South End is an unhealthy place 
Perry was surprized to hear you had fixed upon South End

I know there is such an idea with many people but indeed it is
quite a mistake sir  We all had our health perfectly well there
never found the least inconvenience from the mud and Mr Wingfield
says it is entirely a mistake to suppose the place unhealthy
and I am sure he may be depended on for he thoroughly understands
the nature of the air and his own brother and family have been
there repeatedly

You should have gone to Cromer my dear if you went anywhere  
Perry was a week at Cromer once and he holds it to be the best
of all the sea bathing places  A fine open sea he says and very
pure air  And by what I understand you might have had lodgings there
quite away from the sea  a quarter of a mile off  very comfortable 
You should have consulted Perry

But my dear sir the difference of the journey  only consider how
great it would have been  An hundred miles perhaps instead of forty

Ah my dear as Perry says where health is at stake nothing else
should be considered and if one is to travel there is not much
to chuse between forty miles and an hundred  Better not move at all
better stay in London altogether than travel forty miles to get
into a worse air  This is just what Perry said  It seemed to him
a very ill judged measure

Emma's attempts to stop her father had been vain and when he
had reached such a point as this she could not wonder at her
brother in law's breaking out

Mr Perry said he in a voice of very strong displeasure
would do as well to keep his opinion till it is asked for 
Why does he make it any business of his to wonder at what I do  
at my taking my family to one part of the coast or another  I may
be allowed I hope the use of my judgment as well as Mr Perry  
I want his directions no more than his drugs  He paused  
and growing cooler in a moment added with only sarcastic dryness
If Mr Perry can tell me how to convey a wife and five children
a distance of an hundred and thirty miles with no greater expense
or inconvenience than a distance of forty I should be as willing to
prefer Cromer to South End as he could himself

True true cried Mr Knightley with most ready interposition  
very true  That's a consideration indeed  But John as to what I
was telling you of my idea of moving the path to Langham of turning
it more to the right that it may not cut through the home meadows
I cannot conceive any difficulty  I should not attempt it
if it were to be the means of inconvenience to the Highbury people
but if you call to mind exactly the present line of the path    
The only way of proving it however will be to turn to our maps 
I shall see you at the Abbey to morrow morning I hope and then we
will look them over and you shall give me your opinion

Mr Woodhouse was rather agitated by such harsh reflections on
his friend Perry to whom he had in fact though unconsciously
been attributing many of his own feelings and expressions  
but the soothing attentions of his daughters gradually removed
the present evil and the immediate alertness of one brother
and better recollections of the other prevented any renewal of it



CHAPTER XIII


There could hardly be a happier creature in the world than Mrs John
Knightley in this short visit to Hartfield going about every morning
among her old acquaintance with her five children and talking
over what she had done every evening with her father and sister 
She had nothing to wish otherwise but that the days did not pass
so swiftly  It was a delightful visit  perfect in being much too short

In general their evenings were less engaged with friends than
their mornings but one complete dinner engagement and out
of the house too there was no avoiding though at Christmas 
Mr Weston would take no denial they must all dine at Randalls
one day  even Mr Woodhouse was persuaded to think it a possible
thing in preference to a division of the party

How they were all to be conveyed he would have made a difficulty
if he could but as his son and daughter's carriage and horses
were actually at Hartfield he was not able to make more than
a simple question on that head it hardly amounted to a doubt
nor did it occupy Emma long to convince him that they might in one
of the carriages find room for Harriet also

Harriet Mr Elton and Mr Knightley their own especial set
were the only persons invited to meet them  the hours were to be early
as well as the numbers few Mr Woodhouse's habits and inclination
being consulted in every thing

The evening before this great event for it was a very great event
that Mr Woodhouse should dine out on the 24th of December had been
spent by Harriet at Hartfield and she had gone home so much indisposed
with a cold that but for her own earnest wish of being nursed
by Mrs Goddard Emma could not have allowed her to leave the house 
Emma called on her the next day and found her doom already signed
with regard to Randalls  She was very feverish and had a bad
sore throat  Mrs Goddard was full of care and affection Mr Perry
was talked of and Harriet herself was too ill and low to resist
the authority which excluded her from this delightful engagement
though she could not speak of her loss without many tears

Emma sat with her as long as she could to attend her in Mrs Goddard's
unavoidable absences and raise her spirits by representing how much
Mr Elton's would be depressed when he knew her state and left her
at last tolerably comfortable in the sweet dependence of his having
a most comfortless visit and of their all missing her very much 
She had not advanced many yards from Mrs Goddard's door when she
was met by Mr Elton himself evidently coming towards it and as
they walked on slowly together in conversation about the invalid  
of whom he on the rumour of considerable illness had been going
to inquire that he might carry some report of her to Hartfield  
they were overtaken by Mr John Knightley returning from the
daily visit to Donwell with his two eldest boys whose healthy
glowing faces shewed all the benefit of a country run and seemed
to ensure a quick despatch of the roast mutton and rice pudding they
were hastening home for  They joined company and proceeded together 
Emma was just describing the nature of her friend's complaint  
a throat very much inflamed with a great deal of heat about her
a quick low pulse &c  and she was sorry to find from Mrs Goddard
that Harriet was liable to very bad sore throats and had often
alarmed her with them  Mr Elton looked all alarm on the occasion
as he exclaimed

A sore throat  I hope not infectious  I hope not of a putrid
infectious sort  Has Perry seen her  Indeed you should take care
of yourself as well as of your friend  Let me entreat you to run
no risks  Why does not Perry see her

Emma who was not really at all frightened herself tranquillised this
excess of apprehension by assurances of Mrs Goddard's experience
and care but as there must still remain a degree of uneasiness
which she could not wish to reason away which she would rather
feed and assist than not she added soon afterwards  as if quite
another subject

It is so cold so very cold  and looks and feels so very much
like snow that if it were to any other place or with any other party
I should really try not to go out to day  and dissuade my father
from venturing but as he has made up his mind and does not seem
to feel the cold himself I do not like to interfere as I know it
would be so great a disappointment to Mr and Mrs Weston  But upon
my word Mr Elton in your case I should certainly excuse myself 
You appear to me a little hoarse already and when you consider
what demand of voice and what fatigues to morrow will bring
I think it would be no more than common prudence to stay at home
and take care of yourself to night

Mr Elton looked as if he did not very well know what answer to make
which was exactly the case for though very much gratified by the kind
care of such a fair lady and not liking to resist any advice of
her's he had not really the least inclination to give up the visit  
but Emma too eager and busy in her own previous conceptions
and views to hear him impartially or see him with clear vision
was very well satisfied with his muttering acknowledgment of its
being very cold certainly very cold and walked on rejoicing in
having extricated him from Randalls and secured him the power
of sending to inquire after Harriet every hour of the evening

You do quite right said she  we will make your apologies
to Mr and Mrs Weston

But hardly had she so spoken when she found her brother was civilly
offering a seat in his carriage if the weather were Mr Elton's
only objection and Mr Elton actually accepting the offer with much
prompt satisfaction  It was a done thing Mr Elton was to go
and never had his broad handsome face expressed more pleasure than
at this moment never had his smile been stronger nor his eyes
more exulting than when he next looked at her

Well said she to herself this is most strange  After I
had got him off so well to chuse to go into company and leave
Harriet ill behind  Most strange indeed  But there is I believe
in many men especially single men such an inclination  
such a passion for dining out  a dinner engagement is so high in
the class of their pleasures their employments their dignities
almost their duties that any thing gives way to it  and this must
be the case with Mr Elton a most valuable amiable pleasing young
man undoubtedly and very much in love with Harriet but still
he cannot refuse an invitation he must dine out wherever he is asked 
What a strange thing love is he can see ready wit in Harriet
but will not dine alone for her

Soon afterwards Mr Elton quitted them and she could not but do him
the justice of feeling that there was a great deal of sentiment
in his manner of naming Harriet at parting in the tone of his
voice while assuring her that he should call at Mrs Goddard's
for news of her fair friend the last thing before he prepared
for the happiness of meeting her again when he hoped to be
able to give a better report and he sighed and smiled himself
off in a way that left the balance of approbation much in his favour

After a few minutes of entire silence between them John Knightley
began with  

I never in my life saw a man more intent on being agreeable than
Mr Elton  It is downright labour to him where ladies are concerned 
With men he can be rational and unaffected but when he has ladies
to please every feature works

Mr Elton's manners are not perfect replied Emma but where there
is a wish to please one ought to overlook and one does overlook
a great deal  Where a man does his best with only moderate powers
he will have the advantage over negligent superiority  There is
such perfect good temper and good will in Mr Elton as one cannot
but value

Yes said Mr John Knightley presently with some slyness
he seems to have a great deal of good will towards you

Me she replied with a smile of astonishment are you imagining
me to be Mr Elton's object

Such an imagination has crossed me I own Emma and if it never
occurred to you before you may as well take it into consideration now

Mr Elton in love with me  What an idea

I do not say it is so but you will do well to consider whether
it is so or not and to regulate your behaviour accordingly 
I think your manners to him encouraging  I speak as a friend
Emma  You had better look about you and ascertain what you do
and what you mean to do

I thank you but I assure you you are quite mistaken  Mr Elton
and I are very good friends and nothing more and she walked on
amusing herself in the consideration of the blunders which often
arise from a partial knowledge of circumstances of the mistakes
which people of high pretensions to judgment are for ever falling into
and not very well pleased with her brother for imagining her blind
and ignorant and in want of counsel  He said no more

Mr Woodhouse had so completely made up his mind to the visit
that in spite of the increasing coldness he seemed to have no idea
of shrinking from it and set forward at last most punctually
with his eldest daughter in his own carriage with less apparent
consciousness of the weather than either of the others too full
of the wonder of his own going and the pleasure it was to afford at
Randalls to see that it was cold and too well wrapt up to feel it 
The cold however was severe and by the time the second carriage
was in motion a few flakes of snow were finding their way down
and the sky had the appearance of being so overcharged as to want only
a milder air to produce a very white world in a very short time

Emma soon saw that her companion was not in the happiest humour 
The preparing and the going abroad in such weather with the sacrifice
of his children after dinner were evils were disagreeables at least
which Mr John Knightley did not by any means like he anticipated
nothing in the visit that could be at all worth the purchase
and the whole of their drive to the vicarage was spent by him in
expressing his discontent

A man said he must have a very good opinion of himself when
he asks people to leave their own fireside and encounter such
a day as this for the sake of coming to see him  He must think
himself a most agreeable fellow I could not do such a thing 
It is the greatest absurdity  Actually snowing at this moment  
The folly of not allowing people to be comfortable at home  and the
folly of people's not staying comfortably at home when they can 
If we were obliged to go out such an evening as this by any call of
duty or business what a hardship we should deem it  and here are we
probably with rather thinner clothing than usual setting forward
voluntarily without excuse in defiance of the voice of nature
which tells man in every thing given to his view or his feelings
to stay at home himself and keep all under shelter that he can  
here are we setting forward to spend five dull hours in another
man's house with nothing to say or to hear that was not said
and heard yesterday and may not be said and heard again to morrow
Going in dismal weather to return probably in worse  four horses
and four servants taken out for nothing but to convey five idle
shivering creatures into colder rooms and worse company than they
might have had at home

Emma did not find herself equal to give the pleased assent which no doubt
he was in the habit of receiving to emulate the Very true my love
which must have been usually administered by his travelling companion
but she had resolution enough to refrain from making any answer
at all  She could not be complying she dreaded being quarrelsome
her heroism reached only to silence  She allowed him to talk
and arranged the glasses and wrapped herself up without opening
her lips

They arrived the carriage turned the step was let down
and Mr Elton spruce black and smiling was with them instantly 
Emma thought with pleasure of some change of subject  Mr Elton
was all obligation and cheerfulness he was so very cheerful
in his civilities indeed that she began to think he must have
received a different account of Harriet from what had reached her 
She had sent while dressing and the answer had been Much the same  
not better

My report from Mrs Goddard's said she presently was not
so pleasant as I had hoped  Not better was my answer

His face lengthened immediately and his voice was the voice
of sentiment as he answered

Oh no  I am grieved to find  I was on the point of telling you that
when I called at Mrs Goddard's door which I did the very last thing
before I returned to dress I was told that Miss Smith was not better
by no means better rather worse  Very much grieved and concerned  
I had flattered myself that she must be better after such a cordial
as I knew had been given her in the morning

Emma smiled and answered  My visit was of use to the nervous part
of her complaint I hope but not even I can charm away a sore throat
it is a most severe cold indeed  Mr Perry has been with her
as you probably heard

Yes  I imagined  that is  I did not  

He has been used to her in these complaints and I hope to morrow
morning will bring us both a more comfortable report  But it is
impossible not to feel uneasiness  Such a sad loss to our party to day

Dreadful  Exactly so indeed  She will be missed every moment

This was very proper the sigh which accompanied it was really estimable
but it should have lasted longer  Emma was rather in dismay when
only half a minute afterwards he began to speak of other things
and in a voice of the greatest alacrity and enjoyment

What an excellent device said he the use of a sheepskin
for carriages  How very comfortable they make it  impossible to
feel cold with such precautions  The contrivances of modern days
indeed have rendered a gentleman's carriage perfectly complete 
One is so fenced and guarded from the weather that not a breath
of air can find its way unpermitted  Weather becomes absolutely
of no consequence  It is a very cold afternoon  but in this carriage
we know nothing of the matter  Ha snows a little I see

Yes said John Knightley and I think we shall have a good deal
of it

Christmas weather observed Mr Elton  Quite seasonable
and extremely fortunate we may think ourselves that it did not
begin yesterday and prevent this day's party which it might very
possibly have done for Mr Woodhouse would hardly have ventured had
there been much snow on the ground but now it is of no consequence 
This is quite the season indeed for friendly meetings  At Christmas
every body invites their friends about them and people think little
of even the worst weather  I was snowed up at a friend's house once
for a week  Nothing could be pleasanter  I went for only one night
and could not get away till that very day se'nnight

Mr John Knightley looked as if he did not comprehend the pleasure
but said only coolly

I cannot wish to be snowed up a week at Randalls

At another time Emma might have been amused but she was too
much astonished now at Mr Elton's spirits for other feelings 
Harriet seemed quite forgotten in the expectation of a pleasant party

We are sure of excellent fires continued he and every thing
in the greatest comfort  Charming people Mr and Mrs Weston  
Mrs Weston indeed is much beyond praise and he is exactly
what one values so hospitable and so fond of society  
it will be a small party but where small parties are select
they are perhaps the most agreeable of any  Mr Weston's dining room
does not accommodate more than ten comfortably and for my part
I would rather under such circumstances fall short by two than
exceed by two  I think you will agree with me turning with a soft
air to Emma I think I shall certainly have your approbation
though Mr Knightley perhaps from being used to the large parties
of London may not quite enter into our feelings

I know nothing of the large parties of London sir  I never dine
with any body

Indeed in a tone of wonder and pity I had no idea that the
law had been so great a slavery  Well sir the time must come
when you will be paid for all this when you will have little
labour and great enjoyment

My first enjoyment replied John Knightley as they passed through
the sweep gate will be to find myself safe at Hartfield again



CHAPTER XIV


Some change of countenance was necessary for each gentleman
as they walked into Mrs Weston's drawing room  Mr Elton must
compose his joyous looks and Mr John Knightley disperse his
ill humour Mr Elton must smile less and Mr John Knightley more
to fit them for the place  Emma only might be as nature prompted
and shew herself just as happy as she was  To her it was real
enjoyment to be with the Westons  Mr Weston was a great favourite
and there was not a creature in the world to whom she spoke with
such unreserve as to his wife not any one to whom she related
with such conviction of being listened to and understood of being
always interesting and always intelligible the little affairs
arrangements perplexities and pleasures of her father and herself 
She could tell nothing of Hartfield in which Mrs Weston had not
a lively concern and half an hour's uninterrupted communication
of all those little matters on which the daily happiness of private
life depends was one of the first gratifications of each

This was a pleasure which perhaps the whole day's visit might
not afford which certainly did not belong to the present half hour
but the very sight of Mrs Weston her smile her touch her voice
was grateful to Emma and she determined to think as little as
possible of Mr Elton's oddities or of any thing else unpleasant
and enjoy all that was enjoyable to the utmost

The misfortune of Harriet's cold had been pretty well gone through
before her arrival  Mr Woodhouse had been safely seated long
enough to give the history of it besides all the history of his own
and Isabella's coming and of Emma's being to follow and had indeed
just got to the end of his satisfaction that James should come
and see his daughter when the others appeared and Mrs Weston
who had been almost wholly engrossed by her attentions to him
was able to turn away and welcome her dear Emma

Emma's project of forgetting Mr Elton for a while made her rather
sorry to find when they had all taken their places that he was
close to her  The difficulty was great of driving his strange
insensibility towards Harriet from her mind while he not only sat
at her elbow but was continually obtruding his happy countenance
on her notice and solicitously addressing her upon every occasion 
Instead of forgetting him his behaviour was such that she could
not avoid the internal suggestion of Can it really be as my brother
imagined can it be possible for this man to be beginning to transfer
his affections from Harriet to me  Absurd and insufferable  
Yet he would be so anxious for her being perfectly warm would be
so interested about her father and so delighted with Mrs Weston
and at last would begin admiring her drawings with so much zeal
and so little knowledge as seemed terribly like a would be lover
and made it some effort with her to preserve her good manners 
For her own sake she could not be rude and for Harriet's in the hope
that all would yet turn out right she was even positively civil
but it was an effort especially as something was going on amongst
the others in the most overpowering period of Mr Elton's nonsense
which she particularly wished to listen to  She heard enough
to know that Mr Weston was giving some information about his son
she heard the words my son and Frank and my son
repeated several times over and from a few other half syllables
very much suspected that he was announcing an early visit from
his son but before she could quiet Mr Elton the subject was
so completely past that any reviving question from her would have
been awkward

Now it so happened that in spite of Emma's resolution of never marrying
there was something in the name in the idea of Mr Frank Churchill
which always interested her  She had frequently thought  especially since
his father's marriage with Miss Taylor  that if she were to marry
he was the very person to suit her in age character and condition 
He seemed by this connexion between the families quite to belong to her 
She could not but suppose it to be a match that every body who knew
them must think of  That Mr and Mrs Weston did think of it she was
very strongly persuaded and though not meaning to be induced by him
or by any body else to give up a situation which she believed more
replete with good than any she could change it for she had a great
curiosity to see him a decided intention of finding him pleasant
of being liked by him to a certain degree and a sort of pleasure
in the idea of their being coupled in their friends imaginations

With such sensations Mr Elton's civilities were dreadfully ill timed
but she had the comfort of appearing very polite while feeling
very cross  and of thinking that the rest of the visit could not
possibly pass without bringing forward the same information again
or the substance of it from the open hearted Mr Weston  So it proved  
for when happily released from Mr Elton and seated by Mr Weston
at dinner he made use of the very first interval in the cares
of hospitality the very first leisure from the saddle of mutton
to say to her

We want only two more to be just the right number  I should
like to see two more here  your pretty little friend Miss Smith
and my son  and then I should say we were quite complete 
I believe you did not hear me telling the others in the drawing room
that we are expecting Frank  I had a letter from him this morning
and he will be with us within a fortnight

Emma spoke with a very proper degree of pleasure and fully assented
to his proposition of Mr Frank Churchill and Miss Smith making
their party quite complete

He has been wanting to come to us continued Mr Weston
ever since September  every letter has been full of it
but he cannot command his own time  He has those to please
who must be pleased and who between ourselves are sometimes
to be pleased only by a good many sacrifices  But now
I have no doubt of seeing him here about the second week in January

What a very great pleasure it will be to you and Mrs Weston
is so anxious to be acquainted with him that she must be almost
as happy as yourself

Yes she would be but that she thinks there will be another
put off She does not depend upon his coming so much as I do 
but she does not know the parties so well as I do  The case
you see is  but this is quite between ourselves  I did not mention
a syllable of it in the other room  There are secrets in all families
you know  The case is that a party of friends are invited to pay
a visit at Enscombe in January and that Frank's coming depends upon
their being put off  If they are not put off he cannot stir 
But I know they will because it is a family that a certain lady
of some consequence at Enscombe has a particular dislike to 
and though it is thought necessary to invite them once in two or
three years they always are put off when it comes to the point 
I have not the smallest doubt of the issue  I am as confident
of seeing Frank here before the middle of January as I am
of being here myself  but your good friend there nodding
towards the upper end of the table has so few vagaries herself
and has been so little used to them at Hartfield that she cannot
calculate on their effects as I have been long in the practice
of doing

I am sorry there should be any thing like doubt in the case
replied Emma but am disposed to side with you Mr Weston  If you
think he will come I shall think so too for you know Enscombe

Yes  I have some right to that knowledge though I have never been
at the place in my life  She is an odd woman  But I never allow
myself to speak ill of her on Frank's account for I do believe
her to be very fond of him  I used to think she was not capable
of being fond of any body except herself  but she has always been
kind to him in her way  allowing for little whims and caprices
and expecting every thing to be as she likes And it is no small credit
in my opinion to him that he should excite such an affection
for though I would not say it to any body else she has no more
heart than a stone to people in general and the devil of a temper

Emma liked the subject so well that she began upon it to Mrs Weston
very soon after their moving into the drawing room wishing her joy  
yet observing that she knew the first meeting must be rather alarming  
Mrs Weston agreed to it but added that she should be very
glad to be secure of undergoing the anxiety of a first meeting
at the time talked of  for I cannot depend upon his coming 
I cannot be so sanguine as Mr Weston  I am very much afraid
that it will all end in nothing  Mr Weston I dare say has been
telling you exactly how the matter stands

Yes  it seems to depend upon nothing but the ill humour
of Mrs Churchill which I imagine to be the most certain
thing in the world

My Emma replied Mrs Weston smiling what is the certainty
of caprice  Then turning to Isabella who had not been
attending before  You must know my dear Mrs Knightley
that we are by no means so sure of seeing Mr Frank Churchill
in my opinion as his father thinks  It depends entirely upon
his aunt's spirits and pleasure in short upon her temper 
To you  to my two daughters  I may venture on the truth 
Mrs Churchill rules at Enscombe and is a very odd tempered woman
and his coming now depends upon her being willing to spare him

Oh Mrs Churchill every body knows Mrs Churchill
replied Isabella  and I am sure I never think of that poor young
man without the greatest compassion  To be constantly living
with an ill tempered person must be dreadful  It is what we
happily have never known any thing of but it must be a life
of misery  What a blessing that she never had any children 
Poor little creatures how unhappy she would have made them

Emma wished she had been alone with Mrs Weston  She should then have
heard more  Mrs Weston would speak to her with a degree of unreserve
which she would not hazard with Isabella and she really believed
would scarcely try to conceal any thing relative to the Churchills
from her excepting those views on the young man of which her own
imagination had already given her such instinctive knowledge 
But at present there was nothing more to be said  Mr Woodhouse
very soon followed them into the drawing room To be sitting
long after dinner was a confinement that he could not endure 
Neither wine nor conversation was any thing to him and gladly did
he move to those with whom he was always comfortable

While he talked to Isabella however Emma found an opportunity
of saying

And so you do not consider this visit from your son as by any
means certain  I am sorry for it  The introduction must be unpleasant
whenever it takes place and the sooner it could be over the better

Yes and every delay makes one more apprehensive of other delays 
Even if this family the Braithwaites are put off I am still
afraid that some excuse may be found for disappointing us 
I cannot bear to imagine any reluctance on his side but I am sure
there is a great wish on the Churchills to keep him to themselves 
There is jealousy  They are jealous even of his regard for his father 
In short I can feel no dependence on his coming and I wish Mr Weston
were less sanguine

He ought to come said Emma  If he could stay only a couple
of days he ought to come and one can hardly conceive a young man's
not having it in his power to do as much as that  A young woman
if she fall into bad hands may be teazed and kept at a distance
from those she wants to be with but one cannot comprehend a young
man's being under such restraint as not to be able to spend a week
with his father if he likes it

One ought to be at Enscombe and know the ways of the family
before one decides upon what he can do replied Mrs Weston 
One ought to use the same caution perhaps in judging of the
conduct of any one individual of any one family but Enscombe
I believe certainly must not be judged by general rules 
she is so very unreasonable and every thing gives way to her

But she is so fond of the nephew  he is so very great a favourite 
Now according to my idea of Mrs Churchill it would be most natural
that while she makes no sacrifice for the comfort of the husband
to whom she owes every thing while she exercises incessant caprice
towards him she should frequently be governed by the nephew
to whom she owes nothing at all

My dearest Emma do not pretend with your sweet temper
to understand a bad one or to lay down rules for it  you must
let it go its own way  I have no doubt of his having at times
considerable influence but it may be perfectly impossible for him
to know beforehand when it will be

Emma listened and then coolly said I shall not be satisfied
unless he comes

He may have a great deal of influence on some points
continued Mrs Weston and on others very little  and among those
on which she is beyond his reach it is but too likely may be
this very circumstance of his coming away from them to visit us



CHAPTER XV


Mr Woodhouse was soon ready for his tea and when he had drank his
tea he was quite ready to go home and it was as much as his three
companions could do to entertain away his notice of the lateness
of the hour before the other gentlemen appeared  Mr Weston was
chatty and convivial and no friend to early separations of any sort
but at last the drawing room party did receive an augmentation 
Mr Elton in very good spirits was one of the first to walk in 
Mrs Weston and Emma were sitting together on a sofa  He joined
them immediately and with scarcely an invitation seated himself
between them

Emma in good spirits too from the amusement afforded her mind
by the expectation of Mr Frank Churchill was willing to forget
his late improprieties and be as well satisfied with him as before
and on his making Harriet his very first subject was ready to listen
with most friendly smiles

He professed himself extremely anxious about her fair friend  
her fair lovely amiable friend  Did she know  had she
heard any thing about her since their being at Randalls  
he felt much anxiety  he must confess that the nature of her
complaint alarmed him considerably  And in this style he talked
on for some time very properly not much attending to any answer
but altogether sufficiently awake to the terror of a bad sore throat
and Emma was quite in charity with him

But at last there seemed a perverse turn it seemed all at once as if
he were more afraid of its being a bad sore throat on her account
than on Harriet's  more anxious that she should escape the infection
than that there should be no infection in the complaint  He began
with great earnestness to entreat her to refrain from visiting
the sick chamber again for the present  to entreat her to promise
him not to venture into such hazard till he had seen Mr Perry
and learnt his opinion and though she tried to laugh it off
and bring the subject back into its proper course there was no
putting an end to his extreme solicitude about her  She was vexed 
It did appear  there was no concealing it  exactly like the pretence
of being in love with her instead of Harriet an inconstancy
if real the most contemptible and abominable and she had difficulty
in behaving with temper  He turned to Mrs Weston to implore
her assistance Would not she give him her support  would not she
add her persuasions to his to induce Miss Woodhouse not to go
to Mrs Goddard's till it were certain that Miss Smith's disorder
had no infection  He could not be satisfied without a promise  
would not she give him her influence in procuring it

So scrupulous for others he continued and yet so careless
for herself  She wanted me to nurse my cold by staying at home to day
and yet will not promise to avoid the danger of catching an ulcerated
sore throat herself  Is this fair Mrs Weston  Judge between us 
Have not I some right to complain  I am sure of your kind support
and aid

Emma saw Mrs Weston's surprize and felt that it must be great
at an address which in words and manner was assuming to himself
the right of first interest in her and as for herself she was
too much provoked and offended to have the power of directly
saying any thing to the purpose  She could only give him a look
but it was such a look as she thought must restore him to his senses
and then left the sofa removing to a seat by her sister and giving
her all her attention

She had not time to know how Mr Elton took the reproof so rapidly
did another subject succeed for Mr John Knightley now came
into the room from examining the weather and opened on them
all with the information of the ground being covered with snow
and of its still snowing fast with a strong drifting wind
concluding with these words to Mr Woodhouse

This will prove a spirited beginning of your winter engagements
sir  Something new for your coachman and horses to be making
their way through a storm of snow

Poor Mr Woodhouse was silent from consternation but every body else
had something to say every body was either surprized or not surprized
and had some question to ask or some comfort to offer  Mrs Weston
and Emma tried earnestly to cheer him and turn his attention
from his son in law who was pursuing his triumph rather unfeelingly

I admired your resolution very much sir said he in venturing
out in such weather for of course you saw there would be snow
very soon  Every body must have seen the snow coming on 
I admired your spirit and I dare say we shall get home very well 
Another hour or two's snow can hardly make the road impassable
and we are two carriages if one is blown over in the bleak part
of the common field there will be the other at hand  I dare say we
shall be all safe at Hartfield before midnight

Mr Weston with triumph of a different sort was confessing that he
had known it to be snowing some time but had not said a word
lest it should make Mr Woodhouse uncomfortable and be an excuse
for his hurrying away  As to there being any quantity of snow fallen
or likely to fall to impede their return that was a mere joke
he was afraid they would find no difficulty  He wished the road might
be impassable that he might be able to keep them all at Randalls
and with the utmost good will was sure that accommodation might
be found for every body calling on his wife to agree with him
that with a little contrivance every body might be lodged
which she hardly knew how to do from the consciousness of there
being but two spare rooms in the house

What is to be done my dear Emma  what is to be done
was Mr Woodhouse's first exclamation and all that he could say
for some time  To her he looked for comfort and her assurances
of safety her representation of the excellence of the horses
and of James and of their having so many friends about them
revived him a little

His eldest daughter's alarm was equal to his own  The horror of
being blocked up at Randalls while her children were at Hartfield
was full in her imagination and fancying the road to be now just
passable for adventurous people but in a state that admitted no delay
she was eager to have it settled that her father and Emma should remain
at Randalls while she and her husband set forward instantly through
all the possible accumulations of drifted snow that might impede them

You had better order the carriage directly my love said she
I dare say we shall be able to get along if we set off directly
and if we do come to any thing very bad I can get out and walk 
I am not at all afraid  I should not mind walking half the way 
I could change my shoes you know the moment I got home and it is not
the sort of thing that gives me cold

Indeed replied he  Then my dear Isabella it is the most
extraordinary sort of thing in the world for in general every
thing does give you cold  Walk home  you are prettily shod
for walking home I dare say  It will be bad enough for the horses

Isabella turned to Mrs Weston for her approbation of the plan 
Mrs Weston could only approve  Isabella then went to Emma
but Emma could not so entirely give up the hope of their being
all able to get away and they were still discussing the point
when Mr Knightley who had left the room immediately after his
brother's first report of the snow came back again and told them
that he had been out of doors to examine and could answer for there
not being the smallest difficulty in their getting home whenever they
liked it either now or an hour hence  He had gone beyond the sweep  
some way along the Highbury road  the snow was nowhere above half
an inch deep  in many places hardly enough to whiten the ground
a very few flakes were falling at present but the clouds were parting
and there was every appearance of its being soon over  He had seen
the coachmen and they both agreed with him in there being nothing
to apprehend

To Isabella the relief of such tidings was very great and they
were scarcely less acceptable to Emma on her father's account
who was immediately set as much at ease on the subject as his nervous
constitution allowed but the alarm that had been raised could not
be appeased so as to admit of any comfort for him while he continued
at Randalls  He was satisfied of there being no present danger in
returning home but no assurances could convince him that it was safe
to stay and while the others were variously urging and recommending
Mr Knightley and Emma settled it in a few brief sentences  thus  

Your father will not be easy why do not you go

I am ready if the others are

Shall I ring the bell

Yes do

And the bell was rung and the carriages spoken for  A few
minutes more and Emma hoped to see one troublesome companion
deposited in his own house to get sober and cool and the other
recover his temper and happiness when this visit of hardship were over

The carriage came  and Mr Woodhouse always the first object on
such occasions was carefully attended to his own by Mr Knightley
and Mr Weston but not all that either could say could prevent some
renewal of alarm at the sight of the snow which had actually fallen
and the discovery of a much darker night than he had been prepared for 
He was afraid they should have a very bad drive  He was afraid
poor Isabella would not like it  And there would be poor Emma
in the carriage behind  He did not know what they had best do 
They must keep as much together as they could and James was talked to
and given a charge to go very slow and wait for the other carriage

Isabella stept in after her father John Knightley forgetting that he
did not belong to their party stept in after his wife very naturally
so that Emma found on being escorted and followed into the second
carriage by Mr Elton that the door was to be lawfully shut on them
and that they were to have a tete a tete drive  It would not have been
the awkwardness of a moment it would have been rather a pleasure
previous to the suspicions of this very day she could have talked
to him of Harriet and the three quarters of a mile would have
seemed but one  But now she would rather it had not happened 
She believed he had been drinking too much of Mr Weston's good wine
and felt sure that he would want to be talking nonsense

To restrain him as much as might be by her own manners she was
immediately preparing to speak with exquisite calmness and gravity
of the weather and the night but scarcely had she begun scarcely had
they passed the sweep gate and joined the other carriage than she
found her subject cut up  her hand seized  her attention demanded
and Mr Elton actually making violent love to her  availing himself
of the precious opportunity declaring sentiments which must be already
well known hoping  fearing  adoring  ready to die if she refused him
but flattering himself that his ardent attachment and unequalled
love and unexampled passion could not fail of having some effect
and in short very much resolved on being seriously accepted as soon
as possible  It really was so  Without scruple  without apology  
without much apparent diffidence Mr Elton the lover of Harriet
was professing himself her lover  She tried to stop him but vainly
he would go on and say it all  Angry as she was the thought of
the moment made her resolve to restrain herself when she did speak 
She felt that half this folly must be drunkenness and therefore
could hope that it might belong only to the passing hour 
Accordingly with a mixture of the serious and the playful which she
hoped would best suit his half and half state she replied

I am very much astonished Mr Elton  This to me you forget yourself  
you take me for my friend  any message to Miss Smith I shall
be happy to deliver but no more of this to me if you please

Miss Smith  message to Miss Smith  What could she possibly mean  
And he repeated her words with such assurance of accent such boastful
pretence of amazement that she could not help replying with quickness

Mr Elton this is the most extraordinary conduct and I can account
for it only in one way you are not yourself or you could not speak
either to me or of Harriet in such a manner  Command yourself
enough to say no more and I will endeavour to forget it

But Mr Elton had only drunk wine enough to elevate his spirits
not at all to confuse his intellects  He perfectly knew his own meaning
and having warmly protested against her suspicion as most injurious
and slightly touched upon his respect for Miss Smith as her friend  
but acknowledging his wonder that Miss Smith should be mentioned
at all  he resumed the subject of his own passion and was very
urgent for a favourable answer

As she thought less of his inebriety she thought more of his inconstancy
and presumption and with fewer struggles for politeness replied

It is impossible for me to doubt any longer  You have made
yourself too clear  Mr Elton my astonishment is much beyond
any thing I can express  After such behaviour as I have witnessed
during the last month to Miss Smith  such attentions as I
have been in the daily habit of observing  to be addressing me
in this manner  this is an unsteadiness of character indeed
which I had not supposed possible  Believe me sir I am far
very far from gratified in being the object of such professions

Good Heaven cried Mr Elton what can be the meaning of this  
Miss Smith  I never thought of Miss Smith in the whole course
of my existence  never paid her any attentions but as your friend 
never cared whether she were dead or alive but as your friend 
If she has fancied otherwise her own wishes have misled her
and I am very sorry  extremely sorry  But Miss Smith indeed  Oh 
Miss Woodhouse who can think of Miss Smith when Miss Woodhouse
is near  No upon my honour there is no unsteadiness of character 
I have thought only of you  I protest against having paid the smallest
attention to any one else  Every thing that I have said or done
for many weeks past has been with the sole view of marking my
adoration of yourself  You cannot really seriously doubt it 
No  in an accent meant to be insinuating  I am sure you have seen
and understood me

It would be impossible to say what Emma felt on hearing this  
which of all her unpleasant sensations was uppermost  She was
too completely overpowered to be immediately able to reply 
and two moments of silence being ample encouragement for Mr Elton's
sanguine state of mind he tried to take her hand again as he
joyously exclaimed  

Charming Miss Woodhouse allow me to interpret this interesting silence 
It confesses that you have long understood me

No sir cried Emma it confesses no such thing  So far from
having long understood you I have been in a most complete error
with respect to your views till this moment  As to myself I am
very sorry that you should have been giving way to any feelings  
Nothing could be farther from my wishes  your attachment to my
friend Harriet  your pursuit of her pursuit it appeared gave me
great pleasure and I have been very earnestly wishing you success 
but had I supposed that she were not your attraction to Hartfield
I should certainly have thought you judged ill in making your visits
so frequent  Am I to believe that you have never sought to recommend
yourself particularly to Miss Smith  that you have never thought
seriously of her

Never madam cried he affronted in his turn  never I assure you 
I think seriously of Miss Smith  Miss Smith is a very good sort
of girl and I should be happy to see her respectably settled 
I wish her extremely well  and no doubt there are men who might not
object to  Every body has their level  but as for myself I am not
I think quite so much at a loss  I need not so totally despair
of an equal alliance as to be addressing myself to Miss Smith  
No madam my visits to Hartfield have been for yourself only
and the encouragement I received  

Encouragement  I give you encouragement  Sir you have been entirely
mistaken in supposing it  I have seen you only as the admirer
of my friend  In no other light could you have been more to me than
a common acquaintance  I am exceedingly sorry  but it is well that
the mistake ends where it does  Had the same behaviour continued
Miss Smith might have been led into a misconception of your views
not being aware probably any more than myself of the very
great inequality which you are so sensible of  But as it is
the disappointment is single and I trust will not be lasting 
I have no thoughts of matrimony at present

He was too angry to say another word her manner too decided
to invite supplication and in this state of swelling resentment
and mutually deep mortification they had to continue together a few
minutes longer for the fears of Mr Woodhouse had confined them
to a foot pace If there had not been so much anger there would have
been desperate awkwardness but their straightforward emotions left
no room for the little zigzags of embarrassment  Without knowing
when the carriage turned into Vicarage Lane or when it stopped
they found themselves all at once at the door of his house
and he was out before another syllable passed  Emma then felt it
indispensable to wish him a good night  The compliment was just returned
coldly and proudly and under indescribable irritation of spirits
she was then conveyed to Hartfield

There she was welcomed with the utmost delight by her father
who had been trembling for the dangers of a solitary drive from
Vicarage Lane  turning a corner which he could never bear to think of  
and in strange hands  a mere common coachman  no James and there it
seemed as if her return only were wanted to make every thing go well 
for Mr John Knightley ashamed of his ill humour was now all
kindness and attention and so particularly solicitous for the comfort
of her father as to seem  if not quite ready to join him in a basin
of gruel  perfectly sensible of its being exceedingly wholesome
and the day was concluding in peace and comfort to all their little party
except herself  But her mind had never been in such perturbation
and it needed a very strong effort to appear attentive and cheerful till
the usual hour of separating allowed her the relief of quiet reflection



CHAPTER XVI


The hair was curled and the maid sent away and Emma sat down to think
and be miserable  It was a wretched business indeed  Such an overthrow
of every thing she had been wishing for  Such a development of every
thing most unwelcome  Such a blow for Harriet  that was the worst
of all  Every part of it brought pain and humiliation of some sort
or other but compared with the evil to Harriet all was light
and she would gladly have submitted to feel yet more mistaken  
more in error  more disgraced by mis judgment than she actually was
could the effects of her blunders have been confined to herself

If I had not persuaded Harriet into liking the man I could have
borne any thing  He might have doubled his presumption to me  
but poor Harriet

How she could have been so deceived  He protested that he
had never thought seriously of Harriet  never  She looked back
as well as she could but it was all confusion  She had taken
up the idea she supposed and made every thing bend to it 
His manners however must have been unmarked wavering dubious
or she could not have been so misled

The picture  How eager he had been about the picture  
and the charade  and an hundred other circumstances  
how clearly they had seemed to point at Harriet  To be sure
the charade with its ready wit  but then the soft eyes  
in fact it suited neither it was a jumble without taste or truth 
Who could have seen through such thick headed nonsense

Certainly she had often especially of late thought his manners
to herself unnecessarily gallant but it had passed as his way
as a mere error of judgment of knowledge of taste as one proof
among others that he had not always lived in the best society
that with all the gentleness of his address true elegance
was sometimes wanting but till this very day she had never
for an instant suspected it to mean any thing but grateful respect
to her as Harriet's friend

To Mr John Knightley was she indebted for her first idea on
the subject for the first start of its possibility  There was
no denying that those brothers had penetration  She remembered
what Mr Knightley had once said to her about Mr Elton the caution
he had given the conviction he had professed that Mr Elton would
never marry indiscreetly and blushed to think how much truer
a knowledge of his character had been there shewn than any she
had reached herself  It was dreadfully mortifying but Mr Elton
was proving himself in many respects the very reverse of what she
had meant and believed him proud assuming conceited very full
of his own claims and little concerned about the feelings of others

Contrary to the usual course of things Mr Elton's wanting
to pay his addresses to her had sunk him in her opinion 
His professions and his proposals did him no service  She thought
nothing of his attachment and was insulted by his hopes 
He wanted to marry well and having the arrogance to raise his
eyes to her pretended to be in love but she was perfectly easy
as to his not suffering any disappointment that need be cared for 
There had been no real affection either in his language or manners 
Sighs and fine words had been given in abundance but she could
hardly devise any set of expressions or fancy any tone of voice
less allied with real love  She need not trouble herself to pity him 
He only wanted to aggrandise and enrich himself and if Miss Woodhouse
of Hartfield the heiress of thirty thousand pounds were not quite
so easily obtained as he had fancied he would soon try for Miss
Somebody else with twenty or with ten

But  that he should talk of encouragement should consider her as
aware of his views accepting his attentions meaning in short
to marry him  should suppose himself her equal in connexion
or mind  look down upon her friend so well understanding the
gradations of rank below him and be so blind to what rose above
as to fancy himself shewing no presumption in addressing her  
It was most provoking

Perhaps it was not fair to expect him to feel how very much he
was her inferior in talent and all the elegancies of mind 
The very want of such equality might prevent his perception of it
but he must know that in fortune and consequence she was greatly
his superior  He must know that the Woodhouses had been settled
for several generations at Hartfield the younger branch
of a very ancient family  and that the Eltons were nobody 
The landed property of Hartfield certainly was inconsiderable
being but a sort of notch in the Donwell Abbey estate to which all
the rest of Highbury belonged but their fortune from other sources
was such as to make them scarcely secondary to Donwell Abbey itself
in every other kind of consequence and the Woodhouses had long
held a high place in the consideration of the neighbourhood which
Mr Elton had first entered not two years ago to make his way
as he could without any alliances but in trade or any thing
to recommend him to notice but his situation and his civility  
But he had fancied her in love with him that evidently must
have been his dependence and after raving a little about the
seeming incongruity of gentle manners and a conceited head
Emma was obliged in common honesty to stop and admit that her own
behaviour to him had been so complaisant and obliging so full of
courtesy and attention as supposing her real motive unperceived
might warrant a man of ordinary observation and delicacy
like Mr Elton in fancying himself a very decided favourite  If she
had so misinterpreted his feelings she had little right to wonder
that he with self interest to blind him should have mistaken hers

The first error and the worst lay at her door  It was foolish
it was wrong to take so active a part in bringing any two
people together  It was adventuring too far assuming too much
making light of what ought to be serious a trick of what ought
to be simple  She was quite concerned and ashamed and resolved
to do such things no more

Here have I said she actually talked poor Harriet into being
very much attached to this man  She might never have thought of him
but for me and certainly never would have thought of him with hope
if I had not assured her of his attachment for she is as modest
and humble as I used to think him  Oh that I had been satisfied with
persuading her not to accept young Martin  There I was quite right 
That was well done of me but there I should have stopped and left
the rest to time and chance  I was introducing her into good company
and giving her the opportunity of pleasing some one worth having
I ought not to have attempted more  But now poor girl her peace
is cut up for some time  I have been but half a friend to her
and if she were not to feel this disappointment so very much I am
sure I have not an idea of any body else who would be at all desirable
for her  William Coxe  Oh no I could not endure William Coxe  
a pert young lawyer

She stopt to blush and laugh at her own relapse and then resumed
a more serious more dispiriting cogitation upon what had been
and might be and must be  The distressing explanation she had
to make to Harriet and all that poor Harriet would be suffering
with the awkwardness of future meetings the difficulties of
continuing or discontinuing the acquaintance of subduing feelings
concealing resentment and avoiding eclat were enough to occupy
her in most unmirthful reflections some time longer and she went
to bed at last with nothing settled but the conviction of her having
blundered most dreadfully

To youth and natural cheerfulness like Emma's though under
temporary gloom at night the return of day will hardly fail
to bring return of spirits  The youth and cheerfulness of morning
are in happy analogy and of powerful operation and if the
distress be not poignant enough to keep the eyes unclosed they
will be sure to open to sensations of softened pain and brighter hope

Emma got up on the morrow more disposed for comfort than she had
gone to bed more ready to see alleviations of the evil before her
and to depend on getting tolerably out of it

It was a great consolation that Mr Elton should not be really
in love with her or so particularly amiable as to make it shocking
to disappoint him  that Harriet's nature should not be of that
superior sort in which the feelings are most acute and retentive  
and that there could be no necessity for any body's knowing
what had passed except the three principals and especially
for her father's being given a moment's uneasiness about it

These were very cheering thoughts and the sight of a great deal
of snow on the ground did her further service for any thing was
welcome that might justify their all three being quite asunder
at present

The weather was most favourable for her though Christmas Day
she could not go to church  Mr Woodhouse would have been miserable
had his daughter attempted it and she was therefore safe from
either exciting or receiving unpleasant and most unsuitable ideas 
The ground covered with snow and the atmosphere in that unsettled
state between frost and thaw which is of all others the most
unfriendly for exercise every morning beginning in rain or snow
and every evening setting in to freeze she was for many days a most
honourable prisoner  No intercourse with Harriet possible but by note
no church for her on Sunday any more than on Christmas Day and no
need to find excuses for Mr Elton's absenting himself

It was weather which might fairly confine every body at home
and though she hoped and believed him to be really taking comfort
in some society or other it was very pleasant to have her father
so well satisfied with his being all alone in his own house
too wise to stir out and to hear him say to Mr Knightley whom no
weather could keep entirely from them  

Ah  Mr Knightley why do not you stay at home like poor Mr Elton

These days of confinement would have been but for her private
perplexities remarkably comfortable as such seclusion exactly
suited her brother whose feelings must always be of great importance
to his companions and he had besides so thoroughly cleared off
his ill humour at Randalls that his amiableness never failed him
during the rest of his stay at Hartfield  He was always agreeable
and obliging and speaking pleasantly of every body  But with all
the hopes of cheerfulness and all the present comfort of delay
there was still such an evil hanging over her in the hour of explanation
with Harriet as made it impossible for Emma to be ever perfectly at ease



CHAPTER XVII


Mr and Mrs John Knightley were not detained long at Hartfield 
The weather soon improved enough for those to move who must move
and Mr Woodhouse having as usual tried to persuade his daughter
to stay behind with all her children was obliged to see the whole
party set off and return to his lamentations over the destiny
of poor Isabella  which poor Isabella passing her life with
those she doated on full of their merits blind to their faults
and always innocently busy might have been a model of right
feminine happiness

The evening of the very day on which they went brought a note
from Mr Elton to Mr Woodhouse a long civil ceremonious note
to say with Mr Elton's best compliments that he was proposing
to leave Highbury the following morning in his way to Bath
where in compliance with the pressing entreaties of some friends
he had engaged to spend a few weeks and very much regretted
the impossibility he was under from various circumstances of
weather and business of taking a personal leave of Mr Woodhouse
of whose friendly civilities he should ever retain a grateful sense  
and had Mr Woodhouse any commands should be happy to attend to them

Emma was most agreeably surprized  Mr Elton's absence just
at this time was the very thing to be desired  She admired
him for contriving it though not able to give him much credit
for the manner in which it was announced  Resentment could not
have been more plainly spoken than in a civility to her father
from which she was so pointedly excluded  She had not even a
share in his opening compliments  Her name was not mentioned  
and there was so striking a change in all this and such an
ill judged solemnity of leave taking in his graceful acknowledgments
as she thought at first could not escape her father's suspicion

It did however  Her father was quite taken up with the surprize
of so sudden a journey and his fears that Mr Elton might never get
safely to the end of it and saw nothing extraordinary in his language 
It was a very useful note for it supplied them with fresh matter
for thought and conversation during the rest of their lonely evening 
Mr Woodhouse talked over his alarms and Emma was in spirits
to persuade them away with all her usual promptitude

She now resolved to keep Harriet no longer in the dark  She had
reason to believe her nearly recovered from her cold and it was
desirable that she should have as much time as possible for getting
the better of her other complaint before the gentleman's return 
She went to Mrs Goddard's accordingly the very next day to undergo
the necessary penance of communication and a severe one it was  
She had to destroy all the hopes which she had been so industriously
feeding  to appear in the ungracious character of the one preferred  
and acknowledge herself grossly mistaken and mis judging in all her
ideas on one subject all her observations all her convictions
all her prophecies for the last six weeks

The confession completely renewed her first shame  and the sight
of Harriet's tears made her think that she should never be in charity
with herself again

Harriet bore the intelligence very well  blaming nobody  
and in every thing testifying such an ingenuousness of disposition
and lowly opinion of herself as must appear with particular
advantage at that moment to her friend

Emma was in the humour to value simplicity and modesty to the utmost
and all that was amiable all that ought to be attaching
seemed on Harriet's side not her own  Harriet did not consider
herself as having any thing to complain of  The affection of such
a man as Mr Elton would have been too great a distinction  
She never could have deserved him  and nobody but so partial
and kind a friend as Miss Woodhouse would have thought it possible

Her tears fell abundantly  but her grief was so truly artless
that no dignity could have made it more respectable in Emma's eyes  
and she listened to her and tried to console her with all her heart
and understanding  really for the time convinced that Harriet was
the superior creature of the two  and that to resemble her would
be more for her own welfare and happiness than all that genius or
intelligence could do

It was rather too late in the day to set about being simple minded
and ignorant but she left her with every previous resolution
confirmed of being humble and discreet and repressing imagination
all the rest of her life  Her second duty now inferior only to her
father's claims was to promote Harriet's comfort and endeavour
to prove her own affection in some better method than by match making 
She got her to Hartfield and shewed her the most unvarying kindness
striving to occupy and amuse her and by books and conversation
to drive Mr Elton from her thoughts

Time she knew must be allowed for this being thoroughly done and she
could suppose herself but an indifferent judge of such matters in general
and very inadequate to sympathise in an attachment to Mr Elton
in particular but it seemed to her reasonable that at Harriet's age
and with the entire extinction of all hope such a progress might be
made towards a state of composure by the time of Mr Elton's return
as to allow them all to meet again in the common routine of acquaintance
without any danger of betraying sentiments or increasing them

Harriet did think him all perfection and maintained the non existence
of any body equal to him in person or goodness  and did in truth
prove herself more resolutely in love than Emma had foreseen
but yet it appeared to her so natural so inevitable to strive
against an inclination of that sort unrequited that she could not
comprehend its continuing very long in equal force

If Mr Elton on his return made his own indifference as evident
and indubitable as she could not doubt he would anxiously do
she could not imagine Harriet's persisting to place her happiness
in the sight or the recollection of him

Their being fixed so absolutely fixed in the same place was bad
for each for all three  Not one of them had the power of removal
or of effecting any material change of society  They must encounter
each other and make the best of it

Harriet was farther unfortunate in the tone of her companions at
Mrs Goddard's Mr Elton being the adoration of all the teachers
and great girls in the school and it must be at Hartfield only
that she could have any chance of hearing him spoken of with cooling
moderation or repellent truth  Where the wound had been given
there must the cure be found if anywhere and Emma felt that
till she saw her in the way of cure there could be no true peace
for herself



CHAPTER XVIII


Mr Frank Churchill did not come  When the time proposed
drew near Mrs Weston's fears were justified in the arrival
of a letter of excuse  For the present he could not be spared
to his very great mortification and regret but still he looked
forward with the hope of coming to Randalls at no distant period

Mrs Weston was exceedingly disappointed  much more disappointed
in fact than her husband though her dependence on seeing the
young man had been so much more sober  but a sanguine temper
though for ever expecting more good than occurs does not
always pay for its hopes by any proportionate depression 
It soon flies over the present failure and begins to hope again 
For half an hour Mr Weston was surprized and sorry but then he
began to perceive that Frank's coming two or three months later
would be a much better plan better time of year better weather
and that he would be able without any doubt to stay considerably
longer with them than if he had come sooner

These feelings rapidly restored his comfort while Mrs Weston
of a more apprehensive disposition foresaw nothing but a repetition
of excuses and delays and after all her concern for what her husband
was to suffer suffered a great deal more herself

Emma was not at this time in a state of spirits to care really
about Mr Frank Churchill's not coming except as a disappointment
at Randalls  The acquaintance at present had no charm for her 
She wanted rather to be quiet and out of temptation but still as it
was desirable that she should appear in general like her usual self
she took care to express as much interest in the circumstance
and enter as warmly into Mr and Mrs Weston's disappointment
as might naturally belong to their friendship

She was the first to announce it to Mr Knightley and exclaimed
quite as much as was necessary or being acting a part perhaps
rather more at the conduct of the Churchills in keeping him away 
She then proceeded to say a good deal more than she felt of the
advantage of such an addition to their confined society in Surry
the pleasure of looking at somebody new the gala day to Highbury entire
which the sight of him would have made and ending with reflections
on the Churchills again found herself directly involved in a
disagreement with Mr Knightley and to her great amusement
perceived that she was taking the other side of the question from her
real opinion and making use of Mrs Weston's arguments against herself

The Churchills are very likely in fault said Mr Knightley
coolly but I dare say he might come if he would

I do not know why you should say so  He wishes exceedingly to come
but his uncle and aunt will not spare him

I cannot believe that he has not the power of coming if he made
a point of it  It is too unlikely for me to believe it without proof

How odd you are  What has Mr Frank Churchill done to make you
suppose him such an unnatural creature

I am not supposing him at all an unnatural creature in suspecting
that he may have learnt to be above his connexions and to care
very little for any thing but his own pleasure from living with
those who have always set him the example of it  It is a great deal
more natural than one could wish that a young man brought up
by those who are proud luxurious and selfish should be proud
luxurious and selfish too  If Frank Churchill had wanted to see
his father he would have contrived it between September and January 
A man at his age  what is he  three or four and twenty  cannot be
without the means of doing as much as that  It is impossible

That's easily said and easily felt by you who have always
been your own master  You are the worst judge in the world
Mr Knightley of the difficulties of dependence  You do not know
what it is to have tempers to manage

It is not to be conceived that a man of three or four and twenty
should not have liberty of mind or limb to that amount  He cannot
want money  he cannot want leisure  We know on the contrary
that he has so much of both that he is glad to get rid of them at
the idlest haunts in the kingdom  We hear of him for ever at some
watering place or other  A little while ago he was at Weymouth 
This proves that he can leave the Churchills

Yes sometimes he can

And those times are whenever he thinks it worth his while
whenever there is any temptation of pleasure

It is very unfair to judge of any body's conduct without an
intimate knowledge of their situation  Nobody who has not been
in the interior of a family can say what the difficulties
of any individual of that family may be  We ought to be
acquainted with Enscombe and with Mrs Churchill's temper
before we pretend to decide upon what her nephew can do 
He may at times be able to do a great deal more than he can at others

There is one thing Emma which a man can always do if he chuses
and that is his duty not by manoeuvring and finessing but by vigour
and resolution  It is Frank Churchill's duty to pay this attention
to his father  He knows it to be so by his promises and messages
but if he wished to do it it might be done  A man who felt rightly
would say at once simply and resolutely to Mrs Churchill  
Every sacrifice of mere pleasure you will always find me ready to make
to your convenience but I must go and see my father immediately 
I know he would be hurt by my failing in such a mark of respect to him
on the present occasion  I shall therefore set off to morrow  
If he would say so to her at once in the tone of decision becoming
a man there would be no opposition made to his going

No said Emma laughing but perhaps there might be some made to his
coming back again  Such language for a young man entirely dependent
to use  Nobody but you Mr Knightley would imagine it possible 
But you have not an idea of what is requisite in situations directly
opposite to your own  Mr Frank Churchill to be making such
a speech as that to the uncle and aunt who have brought him up
and are to provide for him  Standing up in the middle of the room
I suppose and speaking as loud as he could  How can you imagine
such conduct practicable

Depend upon it Emma a sensible man would find no difficulty in it 
He would feel himself in the right and the declaration  made
of course as a man of sense would make it in a proper manner  
would do him more good raise him higher fix his interest stronger
with the people he depended on than all that a line of shifts
and expedients can ever do  Respect would be added to affection 
They would feel that they could trust him that the nephew who had
done rightly by his father would do rightly by them for they know
as well as he does as well as all the world must know that he
ought to pay this visit to his father and while meanly exerting
their power to delay it are in their hearts not thinking the better
of him for submitting to their whims  Respect for right conduct
is felt by every body  If he would act in this sort of manner
on principle consistently regularly their little minds would bend
to his

I rather doubt that  You are very fond of bending little minds
but where little minds belong to rich people in authority
I think they have a knack of swelling out till they are quite as
unmanageable as great ones  I can imagine that if you as you are
Mr Knightley were to be transported and placed all at once in
Mr Frank Churchill's situation you would be able to say and do
just what you have been recommending for him and it might have
a very good effect  The Churchills might not have a word to say
in return but then you would have no habits of early obedience
and long observance to break through  To him who has it might
not be so easy to burst forth at once into perfect independence
and set all their claims on his gratitude and regard at nought 
He may have as strong a sense of what would be right as you can have
without being so equal under particular circumstances to act up
to it

Then it would not be so strong a sense  If it failed to produce
equal exertion it could not be an equal conviction

Oh the difference of situation and habit  I wish you would try
to understand what an amiable young man may be likely to feel
in directly opposing those whom as child and boy he has been
looking up to all his life

Our amiable young man is a very weak young man if this be the first
occasion of his carrying through a resolution to do right against
the will of others  It ought to have been a habit with him by
this time of following his duty instead of consulting expediency 
I can allow for the fears of the child but not of the man 
As he became rational he ought to have roused himself and shaken off
all that was unworthy in their authority  He ought to have opposed
the first attempt on their side to make him slight his father 
Had he begun as he ought there would have been no difficulty now

We shall never agree about him cried Emma but that is
nothing extraordinary  I have not the least idea of his being
a weak young man  I feel sure that he is not  Mr Weston would
not be blind to folly though in his own son but he is very likely
to have a more yielding complying mild disposition than would suit
your notions of man's perfection  I dare say he has and though
it may cut him off from some advantages it will secure him many others

Yes all the advantages of sitting still when he ought to move
and of leading a life of mere idle pleasure and fancying himself
extremely expert in finding excuses for it  He can sit down and
write a fine flourishing letter full of professions and falsehoods
and persuade himself that he has hit upon the very best method
in the world of preserving peace at home and preventing his father's
having any right to complain  His letters disgust me

Your feelings are singular  They seem to satisfy every body else

I suspect they do not satisfy Mrs Weston  They hardly can
satisfy a woman of her good sense and quick feelings  standing in
a mother's place but without a mother's affection to blind her 
It is on her account that attention to Randalls is doubly due
and she must doubly feel the omission  Had she been a person
of consequence herself he would have come I dare say and it would
not have signified whether he did or no  Can you think your friend
behindhand in these sort of considerations  Do you suppose she
does not often say all this to herself  No Emma your amiable
young man can be amiable only in French not in English  He may be
very aimable have very good manners and be very agreeable but he
can have no English delicacy towards the feelings of other people 
nothing really amiable about him

You seem determined to think ill of him

Me  not at all replied Mr Knightley rather displeased I do
not want to think ill of him  I should be as ready to acknowledge
his merits as any other man but I hear of none except what are
merely personal that he is well grown and good looking with smooth
plausible manners

Well if he have nothing else to recommend him he will be a
treasure at Highbury  We do not often look upon fine young men
well bred and agreeable  We must not be nice and ask for all
the virtues into the bargain  Cannot you imagine Mr Knightley
what a sensation his coming will produce  There will be but one subject
throughout the parishes of Donwell and Highbury but one interest  
one object of curiosity it will be all Mr Frank Churchill
we shall think and speak of nobody else

You will excuse my being so much over powered If I find him
conversable I shall be glad of his acquaintance but if he is only
a chattering coxcomb he will not occupy much of my time or thoughts

My idea of him is that he can adapt his conversation to the taste
of every body and has the power as well as the wish of being
universally agreeable  To you he will talk of farming to me
of drawing or music and so on to every body having that general
information on all subjects which will enable him to follow the lead
or take the lead just as propriety may require and to speak
extremely well on each that is my idea of him

And mine said Mr Knightley warmly is that if he turn out any
thing like it he will be the most insufferable fellow breathing 
What at three and twenty to be the king of his company  the great man  
the practised politician who is to read every body's character
and make every body's talents conduce to the display of his
own superiority to be dispensing his flatteries around that he
may make all appear like fools compared with himself  My dear Emma
your own good sense could not endure such a puppy when it came
to the point

I will say no more about him cried Emma you turn every
thing to evil  We are both prejudiced you against I for him
and we have no chance of agreeing till he is really here

Prejudiced  I am not prejudiced

But I am very much and without being at all ashamed of it 
My love for Mr and Mrs Weston gives me a decided prejudice in
his favour

He is a person I never think of from one month's end to another
said Mr Knightley with a degree of vexation which made Emma
immediately talk of something else though she could not comprehend
why he should be angry

To take a dislike to a young man only because he appeared to be
of a different disposition from himself was unworthy the real
liberality of mind which she was always used to acknowledge in him
for with all the high opinion of himself which she had often laid
to his charge she had never before for a moment supposed it could
make him unjust to the merit of another




VOLUME II



CHAPTER I


Emma and Harriet had been walking together one morning and
in Emma's opinion had been talking enough of Mr Elton for that day 
She could not think that Harriet's solace or her own sins required more
and she was therefore industriously getting rid of the subject
as they returned  but it burst out again when she thought she
had succeeded and after speaking some time of what the poor must
suffer in winter and receiving no other answer than a very plaintive  
Mr Elton is so good to the poor she found something else must be done

They were just approaching the house where lived Mrs and Miss Bates 
She determined to call upon them and seek safety in numbers 
There was always sufficient reason for such an attention Mrs and
Miss Bates loved to be called on and she knew she was considered
by the very few who presumed ever to see imperfection in her
as rather negligent in that respect and as not contributing what she
ought to the stock of their scanty comforts

She had had many a hint from Mr Knightley and some from her own heart
as to her deficiency  but none were equal to counteract the persuasion
of its being very disagreeable  a waste of time  tiresome women  
and all the horror of being in danger of falling in with the second rate
and third rate of Highbury who were calling on them for ever
and therefore she seldom went near them  But now she made the sudden
resolution of not passing their door without going in  observing
as she proposed it to Harriet that as well as she could calculate
they were just now quite safe from any letter from Jane Fairfax

The house belonged to people in business  Mrs and Miss Bates occupied
the drawing room floor and there in the very moderate sized apartment
which was every thing to them the visitors were most cordially
and even gratefully welcomed the quiet neat old lady who with her
knitting was seated in the warmest corner wanting even to give up
her place to Miss Woodhouse and her more active talking daughter
almost ready to overpower them with care and kindness thanks for
their visit solicitude for their shoes anxious inquiries after
Mr Woodhouse's health cheerful communications about her mother's
and sweet cake from the beaufet  Mrs Cole had just been there
just called in for ten minutes and had been so good as to sit an
hour with them and she had taken a piece of cake and been so kind
as to say she liked it very much and therefore she hoped Miss
Woodhouse and Miss Smith would do them the favour to eat a piece too

The mention of the Coles was sure to be followed by that of Mr Elton 
There was intimacy between them and Mr Cole had heard from
Mr Elton since his going away  Emma knew what was coming they must
have the letter over again and settle how long he had been gone
and how much he was engaged in company and what a favourite he
was wherever he went and how full the Master of the Ceremonies
ball had been and she went through it very well with all the
interest and all the commendation that could be requisite and always
putting forward to prevent Harriet's being obliged to say a word

This she had been prepared for when she entered the house
but meant having once talked him handsomely over to be no farther
incommoded by any troublesome topic and to wander at large amongst
all the Mistresses and Misses of Highbury and their card parties
She had not been prepared to have Jane Fairfax succeed Mr Elton
but he was actually hurried off by Miss Bates she jumped away
from him at last abruptly to the Coles to usher in a letter from
her niece

Oh yes  Mr Elton I understand  certainly as to dancing  
Mrs Cole was telling me that dancing at the rooms at Bath was  
Mrs Cole was so kind as to sit some time with us talking of Jane
for as soon as she came in she began inquiring after her
Jane is so very great a favourite there  Whenever she is with us
Mrs Cole does not know how to shew her kindness enough
and I must say that Jane deserves it as much as any body can 
And so she began inquiring after her directly saying I know you
cannot have heard from Jane lately because it is not her time
for writing and when I immediately said But indeed we have
we had a letter this very morning I do not know that I ever saw
any body more surprized  Have you upon your honour said she
well that is quite unexpected  Do let me hear what she says

Emma's politeness was at hand directly to say with smiling interest  

Have you heard from Miss Fairfax so lately  I am extremely happy 
I hope she is well

Thank you  You are so kind replied the happily deceived aunt
while eagerly hunting for the letter  Oh here it is  I was sure
it could not be far off but I had put my huswife upon it you see
without being aware and so it was quite hid but I had it in my hand
so very lately that I was almost sure it must be on the table 
I was reading it to Mrs Cole and since she went away I was
reading it again to my mother for it is such a pleasure to her  
a letter from Jane  that she can never hear it often enough
so I knew it could not be far off and here it is only just under
my huswife  and since you are so kind as to wish to hear what
she says  but first of all I really must in justice to Jane
apologise for her writing so short a letter  only two pages you see  
hardly two  and in general she fills the whole paper and crosses half 
My mother often wonders that I can make it out so well 
She often says when the letter is first opened Well Hetty
now I think you will be put to it to make out all that checker work  
don't you ma'am  And then I tell her I am sure she would contrive
to make it out herself if she had nobody to do it for her  
every word of it  I am sure she would pore over it till she had
made out every word  And indeed though my mother's eyes are not
so good as they were she can see amazingly well still thank God
with the help of spectacles  It is such a blessing  My mother's
are really very good indeed  Jane often says when she is here
I am sure grandmama you must have had very strong eyes to see
as you do  and so much fine work as you have done too  I only wish
my eyes may last me as well

All this spoken extremely fast obliged Miss Bates to stop for breath
and Emma said something very civil about the excellence of Miss
Fairfax's handwriting

You are extremely kind replied Miss Bates highly gratified
you who are such a judge and write so beautifully yourself 
I am sure there is nobody's praise that could give us so much pleasure
as Miss Woodhouse's My mother does not hear she is a little deaf
you know  Ma'am addressing her do you hear what Miss Woodhouse
is so obliging to say about Jane's handwriting

And Emma had the advantage of hearing her own silly compliment
repeated twice over before the good old lady could comprehend it 
She was pondering in the meanwhile upon the possibility without seeming
very rude of making her escape from Jane Fairfax's letter and had
almost resolved on hurrying away directly under some slight excuse
when Miss Bates turned to her again and seized her attention

My mother's deafness is very trifling you see  just nothing at all 
By only raising my voice and saying any thing two or three times over
she is sure to hear but then she is used to my voice  But it is very
remarkable that she should always hear Jane better than she does me 
Jane speaks so distinct  However she will not find her grandmama
at all deafer than she was two years ago which is saying a great
deal at my mother's time of life  and it really is full two years
you know since she was here  We never were so long without seeing
her before and as I was telling Mrs Cole we shall hardly know
how to make enough of her now

Are you expecting Miss Fairfax here soon

Oh yes next week

Indeed  that must be a very great pleasure

Thank you  You are very kind  Yes next week  Every body is
so surprized and every body says the same obliging things  I am
sure she will be as happy to see her friends at Highbury as they
can be to see her  Yes Friday or Saturday she cannot say which
because Colonel Campbell will be wanting the carriage himself one
of those days  So very good of them to send her the whole way 
But they always do you know  Oh yes Friday or Saturday next 
That is what she writes about  That is the reason of her writing out
of rule as we call it for in the common course we should not have
heard from her before next Tuesday or Wednesday

Yes so I imagined  I was afraid there could be little chance
of my hearing any thing of Miss Fairfax to day

So obliging of you  No we should not have heard if it had not
been for this particular circumstance of her being to come here
so soon  My mother is so delighted  for she is to be three months
with us at least  Three months she says so positively as I
am going to have the pleasure of reading to you  The case is
you see that the Campbells are going to Ireland  Mrs Dixon has
persuaded her father and mother to come over and see her directly 
They had not intended to go over till the summer but she is so
impatient to see them again  for till she married last October
she was never away from them so much as a week which must make
it very strange to be in different kingdoms I was going to say
but however different countries and so she wrote a very urgent letter
to her mother  or her father I declare I do not know which it was
but we shall see presently in Jane's letter  wrote in Mr Dixon's
name as well as her own to press their coming over directly
and they would give them the meeting in Dublin and take them back
to their country seat Baly craig a beautiful place I fancy 
Jane has heard a great deal of its beauty from Mr Dixon I mean  
I do not know that she ever heard about it from any body else
but it was very natural you know that he should like to speak
of his own place while he was paying his addresses  and as Jane used
to be very often walking out with them  for Colonel and Mrs Campbell
were very particular about their daughter's not walking out
often with only Mr Dixon for which I do not at all blame them
of course she heard every thing he might be telling Miss Campbell
about his own home in Ireland and I think she wrote us word
that he had shewn them some drawings of the place views that he
had taken himself  He is a most amiable charming young man
I believe  Jane was quite longing to go to Ireland from his account
of things

At this moment an ingenious and animating suspicion entering
Emma's brain with regard to Jane Fairfax this charming Mr Dixon
and the not going to Ireland she said with the insidious design
of farther discovery

You must feel it very fortunate that Miss Fairfax should be allowed
to come to you at such a time  Considering the very particular
friendship between her and Mrs Dixon you could hardly have expected
her to be excused from accompanying Colonel and Mrs Campbell

Very true very true indeed  The very thing that we have always
been rather afraid of for we should not have liked to have her
at such a distance from us for months together  not able to come
if any thing was to happen  But you see every thing turns out
for the best  They want her Mr and Mrs Dixon excessively to
come over with Colonel and Mrs Campbell quite depend upon it
nothing can be more kind or pressing than their joint invitation
Jane says as you will hear presently Mr Dixon does not seem in the
least backward in any attention  He is a most charming young man 
Ever since the service he rendered Jane at Weymouth when they were
out in that party on the water and she by the sudden whirling
round of something or other among the sails would have been dashed
into the sea at once and actually was all but gone if he had not
with the greatest presence of mind caught hold of her habit  
I can never think of it without trembling  But ever since we
had the history of that day I have been so fond of Mr Dixon

But in spite of all her friends urgency and her own wish
of seeing Ireland Miss Fairfax prefers devoting the time to you
and Mrs Bates

Yes  entirely her own doing entirely her own choice and Colonel
and Mrs Campbell think she does quite right just what they
should recommend and indeed they particularly wish her to try
her native air as she has not been quite so well as usual lately

I am concerned to hear of it  I think they judge wisely 
But Mrs Dixon must be very much disappointed  Mrs Dixon
I understand has no remarkable degree of personal beauty is not
by any means to be compared with Miss Fairfax

Oh no  You are very obliging to say such things  but certainly not 
There is no comparison between them  Miss Campbell always was
absolutely plain  but extremely elegant and amiable

Yes that of course

Jane caught a bad cold poor thing so long ago as the 7th
of November as I am going to read to you and has never been
well since  A long time is not it for a cold to hang upon her 
She never mentioned it before because she would not alarm us 
Just like her so considerate  But however she is so far from well
that her kind friends the Campbells think she had better come home
and try an air that always agrees with her and they have no doubt
that three or four months at Highbury will entirely cure her  
and it is certainly a great deal better that she should come here
than go to Ireland if she is unwell Nobody could nurse her as we
should do

It appears to me the most desirable arrangement in the world

And so she is to come to us next Friday or Saturday and the
Campbells leave town in their way to Holyhead the Monday following  
as you will find from Jane's letter  So sudden  You may guess
dear Miss Woodhouse what a flurry it has thrown me in 
If it was not for the drawback of her illness  but I am afraid
we must expect to see her grown thin and looking very poorly 
I must tell you what an unlucky thing happened to me as to that 
I always make a point of reading Jane's letters through to myself first
before I read them aloud to my mother you know for fear of there
being any thing in them to distress her  Jane desired me to do it
so I always do  and so I began to day with my usual caution
but no sooner did I come to the mention of her being unwell than I
burst out quite frightened with Bless me poor Jane is ill  
which my mother being on the watch heard distinctly and was sadly
alarmed at  However when I read on I found it was not near so bad
as I had fancied at first and I make so light of it now to her
that she does not think much about it  But I cannot imagine
how I could be so off my guard  If Jane does not get well soon
we will call in Mr Perry  The expense shall not be thought of
and though he is so liberal and so fond of Jane that I dare say
he would not mean to charge any thing for attendance we could not
suffer it to be so you know  He has a wife and family to maintain
and is not to be giving away his time  Well now I have just given you
a hint of what Jane writes about we will turn to her letter and I am
sure she tells her own story a great deal better than I can tell it
for her

I am afraid we must be running away said Emma glancing at Harriet
and beginning to rise  My father will be expecting us 
I had no intention I thought I had no power of staying more than
five minutes when I first entered the house  I merely called
because I would not pass the door without inquiring after Mrs Bates
but I have been so pleasantly detained  Now however we must wish
you and Mrs Bates good morning

And not all that could be urged to detain her succeeded 
She regained the street  happy in this that though much had been
forced on her against her will though she had in fact heard
the whole substance of Jane Fairfax's letter she had been able
to escape the letter itself



CHAPTER II


Jane Fairfax was an orphan the only child of Mrs Bates's
youngest daughter

The marriage of Lieut Fairfax of the  regiment of infantry
and Miss Jane Bates had had its day of fame and pleasure
hope and interest but nothing now remained of it save the melancholy
remembrance of him dying in action abroad  of his widow sinking
under consumption and grief soon afterwards  and this girl

By birth she belonged to Highbury  and when at three years old
on losing her mother she became the property the charge
the consolation the fondling of her grandmother and aunt there had
seemed every probability of her being permanently fixed there
of her being taught only what very limited means could command
and growing up with no advantages of connexion or improvement
to be engrafted on what nature had given her in a pleasing person
good understanding and warm hearted well meaning relations

But the compassionate feelings of a friend of her father gave
a change to her destiny  This was Colonel Campbell who had
very highly regarded Fairfax as an excellent officer and most
deserving young man and farther had been indebted to him for
such attentions during a severe camp fever as he believed had saved
his life  These were claims which he did not learn to overlook
though some years passed away from the death of poor Fairfax
before his own return to England put any thing in his power 
When he did return he sought out the child and took notice of her 
He was a married man with only one living child a girl
about Jane's age  and Jane became their guest paying them long visits
and growing a favourite with all and before she was nine years old
his daughter's great fondness for her and his own wish of being
a real friend united to produce an offer from Colonel Campbell
of undertaking the whole charge of her education  It was accepted
and from that period Jane had belonged to Colonel Campbell's family
and had lived with them entirely only visiting her grandmother
from time to time

The plan was that she should be brought up for educating others
the very few hundred pounds which she inherited from her father
making independence impossible  To provide for her otherwise
was out of Colonel Campbell's power for though his income by pay
and appointments was handsome his fortune was moderate and must
be all his daughter's but by giving her an education he hoped
to be supplying the means of respectable subsistence hereafter

Such was Jane Fairfax's history  She had fallen into good hands
known nothing but kindness from the Campbells and been given
an excellent education  Living constantly with right minded
and well informed people her heart and understanding had received
every advantage of discipline and culture and Colonel Campbell's
residence being in London every lighter talent had been done
full justice to by the attendance of first rate masters 
Her disposition and abilities were equally worthy of all that
friendship could do and at eighteen or nineteen she was as far
as such an early age can be qualified for the care of children
fully competent to the office of instruction herself but she
was too much beloved to be parted with  Neither father nor mother
could promote and the daughter could not endure it  The evil day
was put off  It was easy to decide that she was still too young
and Jane remained with them sharing as another daughter in all
the rational pleasures of an elegant society and a judicious
mixture of home and amusement with only the drawback of the future
the sobering suggestions of her own good understanding to remind
her that all this might soon be over

The affection of the whole family the warm attachment of Miss
Campbell in particular was the more honourable to each party
from the circumstance of Jane's decided superiority both in beauty
and acquirements  That nature had given it in feature could not
be unseen by the young woman nor could her higher powers of mind
be unfelt by the parents  They continued together with unabated
regard however till the marriage of Miss Campbell who by that chance
that luck which so often defies anticipation in matrimonial affairs
giving attraction to what is moderate rather than to what is superior
engaged the affections of Mr Dixon a young man rich and agreeable
almost as soon as they were acquainted and was eligibly
and happily settled while Jane Fairfax had yet her bread to earn

This event had very lately taken place too lately for any thing to be
yet attempted by her less fortunate friend towards entering on her path
of duty though she had now reached the age which her own judgment
had fixed on for beginning  She had long resolved that one and twenty
should be the period  With the fortitude of a devoted novitiate
she had resolved at one and twenty to complete the sacrifice
and retire from all the pleasures of life of rational intercourse
equal society peace and hope to penance and mortification for ever

The good sense of Colonel and Mrs Campbell could not oppose such
a resolution though their feelings did  As long as they lived
no exertions would be necessary their home might be hers for ever
and for their own comfort they would have retained her wholly
but this would be selfishness  what must be at last had better
be soon  Perhaps they began to feel it might have been kinder
and wiser to have resisted the temptation of any delay and spared
her from a taste of such enjoyments of ease and leisure as must
now be relinquished  Still however affection was glad to catch
at any reasonable excuse for not hurrying on the wretched moment 
She had never been quite well since the time of their daughter's marriage
and till she should have completely recovered her usual strength
they must forbid her engaging in duties which so far from being
compatible with a weakened frame and varying spirits seemed
under the most favourable circumstances to require something
more than human perfection of body and mind to be discharged with
tolerable comfort

With regard to her not accompanying them to Ireland her account
to her aunt contained nothing but truth though there might be some
truths not told  It was her own choice to give the time of their
absence to Highbury to spend perhaps her last months of perfect
liberty with those kind relations to whom she was so very dear 
and the Campbells whatever might be their motive or motives
whether single or double or treble gave the arrangement
their ready sanction and said that they depended more on a few
months spent in her native air for the recovery of her health
than on any thing else  Certain it was that she was to come
and that Highbury instead of welcoming that perfect novelty which
had been so long promised it  Mr Frank Churchill  must put up for
the present with Jane Fairfax who could bring only the freshness
of a two years absence

Emma was sorry  to have to pay civilities to a person she did
not like through three long months  to be always doing more than
she wished and less than she ought  Why she did not like Jane
Fairfax might be a difficult question to answer Mr Knightley
had once told her it was because she saw in her the really
accomplished young woman which she wanted to be thought herself
and though the accusation had been eagerly refuted at the time
there were moments of self examination in which her conscience could
not quite acquit her  But she could never get acquainted with her 
she did not know how it was but there was such coldness and reserve  
such apparent indifference whether she pleased or not  and then
her aunt was such an eternal talker  and she was made such a fuss
with by every body  and it had been always imagined that they were
to be so intimate  because their ages were the same every body had
supposed they must be so fond of each other  These were her reasons  
she had no better

It was a dislike so little just  every imputed fault was so magnified
by fancy that she never saw Jane Fairfax the first time after any
considerable absence without feeling that she had injured her
and now when the due visit was paid on her arrival after a two years
interval she was particularly struck with the very appearance
and manners which for those two whole years she had been depreciating 
Jane Fairfax was very elegant remarkably elegant and she had
herself the highest value for elegance  Her height was pretty
just such as almost every body would think tall and nobody could
think very tall her figure particularly graceful her size a most
becoming medium between fat and thin though a slight appearance
of ill health seemed to point out the likeliest evil of the two 
Emma could not but feel all this and then her face  her features  
there was more beauty in them altogether than she had remembered
it was not regular but it was very pleasing beauty  Her eyes
a deep grey with dark eye lashes and eyebrows had never been denied
their praise but the skin which she had been used to cavil at
as wanting colour had a clearness and delicacy which really needed
no fuller bloom  It was a style of beauty of which elegance
was the reigning character and as such she must in honour
by all her principles admire it  elegance which whether of person
or of mind she saw so little in Highbury  There not to be vulgar
was distinction and merit

In short she sat during the first visit looking at Jane Fairfax
with twofold complacency the sense of pleasure and the sense
of rendering justice and was determining that she would dislike
her no longer  When she took in her history indeed her situation
as well as her beauty when she considered what all this elegance
was destined to what she was going to sink from how she was going
to live it seemed impossible to feel any thing but compassion
and respect especially if to every well known particular entitling
her to interest were added the highly probable circumstance
of an attachment to Mr Dixon which she had so naturally started
to herself  In that case nothing could be more pitiable
or more honourable than the sacrifices she had resolved on 
Emma was very willing now to acquit her of having seduced
Mr Dixon's actions from his wife or of any thing mischievous
which her imagination had suggested at first  If it were love
it might be simple single successless love on her side alone 
She might have been unconsciously sucking in the sad poison
while a sharer of his conversation with her friend and from the best
the purest of motives might now be denying herself this visit
to Ireland and resolving to divide herself effectually from
him and his connexions by soon beginning her career of laborious duty

Upon the whole Emma left her with such softened charitable feelings
as made her look around in walking home and lament that Highbury
afforded no young man worthy of giving her independence
nobody that she could wish to scheme about for her

These were charming feelings  but not lasting  Before she had
committed herself by any public profession of eternal friendship for
Jane Fairfax or done more towards a recantation of past prejudices
and errors than saying to Mr Knightley She certainly is handsome
she is better than handsome  Jane had spent an evening at Hartfield
with her grandmother and aunt and every thing was relapsing much
into its usual state  Former provocations reappeared  The aunt
was as tiresome as ever more tiresome because anxiety for her
health was now added to admiration of her powers and they had to
listen to the description of exactly how little bread and butter
she ate for breakfast and how small a slice of mutton for dinner
as well as to see exhibitions of new caps and new workbags for her
mother and herself and Jane's offences rose again  They had music
Emma was obliged to play and the thanks and praise which necessarily
followed appeared to her an affectation of candour an air
of greatness meaning only to shew off in higher style her own very
superior performance  She was besides which was the worst of all
so cold so cautious  There was no getting at her real opinion 
Wrapt up in a cloak of politeness she seemed determined
to hazard nothing  She was disgustingly was suspiciously reserved

If any thing could be more where all was most she was more
reserved on the subject of Weymouth and the Dixons than any thing 
She seemed bent on giving no real insight into Mr Dixon's character
or her own value for his company or opinion of the suitableness
of the match  It was all general approbation and smoothness
nothing delineated or distinguished  It did her no service however 
Her caution was thrown away  Emma saw its artifice and returned
to her first surmises  There probably was something more to conceal
than her own preference Mr Dixon perhaps had been very near
changing one friend for the other or been fixed only to Miss Campbell
for the sake of the future twelve thousand pounds

The like reserve prevailed on other topics  She and Mr Frank Churchill
had been at Weymouth at the same time  It was known that they were
a little acquainted but not a syllable of real information could Emma
procure as to what he truly was  Was he handsome  She believed
he was reckoned a very fine young man  Was he agreeable  
He was generally thought so  Did he appear a sensible young man
a young man of information  At a watering place or in a common
London acquaintance it was difficult to decide on such points 
Manners were all that could be safely judged of under a much longer
knowledge than they had yet had of Mr Churchill  She believed
every body found his manners pleasing  Emma could not forgive her



CHAPTER III


Emma could not forgive her  but as neither provocation nor resentment
were discerned by Mr Knightley who had been of the party and had
seen only proper attention and pleasing behaviour on each side
he was expressing the next morning being at Hartfield again on
business with Mr Woodhouse his approbation of the whole not so
openly as he might have done had her father been out of the room
but speaking plain enough to be very intelligible to Emma 
He had been used to think her unjust to Jane and had now great
pleasure in marking an improvement

A very pleasant evening he began as soon as Mr Woodhouse
had been talked into what was necessary told that he understood
and the papers swept away  particularly pleasant  You and Miss
Fairfax gave us some very good music  I do not know a more
luxurious state sir than sitting at one's ease to be entertained
a whole evening by two such young women sometimes with music
and sometimes with conversation  I am sure Miss Fairfax must
have found the evening pleasant Emma  You left nothing undone 
I was glad you made her play so much for having no instrument
at her grandmother's it must have been a real indulgence

I am happy you approved said Emma smiling but I hope I am
not often deficient in what is due to guests at Hartfield

No my dear said her father instantly that I am sure you
are not  There is nobody half so attentive and civil as you are 
If any thing you are too attentive  The muffin last night  if it
had been handed round once I think it would have been enough

No said Mr Knightley nearly at the same time you are not
often deficient not often deficient either in manner or comprehension 
I think you understand me therefore

An arch look expressed  I understand you well enough but she
said only Miss Fairfax is reserved

I always told you she was  a little but you will soon overcome
all that part of her reserve which ought to be overcome all that
has its foundation in diffidence  What arises from discretion
must be honoured

You think her diffident  I do not see it

My dear Emma said he moving from his chair into one close
by her you are not going to tell me I hope that you
had not a pleasant evening

Oh no I was pleased with my own perseverance in asking questions
and amused to think how little information I obtained

I am disappointed was his only answer

I hope every body had a pleasant evening said Mr Woodhouse
in his quiet way  I had  Once I felt the fire rather too much
but then I moved back my chair a little a very little and it did
not disturb me  Miss Bates was very chatty and good humoured
as she always is though she speaks rather too quick  However
she is very agreeable and Mrs Bates too in a different way 
I like old friends and Miss Jane Fairfax is a very pretty sort of
young lady a very pretty and a very well behaved young lady indeed 
She must have found the evening agreeable Mr Knightley because she
had Emma

True sir and Emma because she had Miss Fairfax

Emma saw his anxiety and wishing to appease it at least for
the present said and with a sincerity which no one could question  

She is a sort of elegant creature that one cannot keep one's eyes from 
I am always watching her to admire and I do pity her from my heart

Mr Knightley looked as if he were more gratified than he cared
to express and before he could make any reply Mr Woodhouse
whose thoughts were on the Bates's said  

It is a great pity that their circumstances should be so confined
a great pity indeed and I have often wished  but it is so little one
can venture to do  small trifling presents of any thing uncommon  
Now we have killed a porker and Emma thinks of sending them
a loin or a leg it is very small and delicate  Hartfield pork is
not like any other pork  but still it is pork  and my dear Emma
unless one could be sure of their making it into steaks nicely fried
as ours are fried without the smallest grease and not roast it
for no stomach can bear roast pork  I think we had better send the leg  
do not you think so my dear

My dear papa I sent the whole hind quarter I knew you would wish it 
There will be the leg to be salted you know which is so very nice
and the loin to be dressed directly in any manner they like

That's right my dear very right  I had not thought of it before
but that is the best way  They must not over salt the leg and then
if it is not over salted and if it is very thoroughly boiled
just as Serle boils ours and eaten very moderately of with a
boiled turnip and a little carrot or parsnip I do not consider
it unwholesome

Emma said Mr Knightley presently I have a piece of news for you 
You like news  and I heard an article in my way hither that I think
will interest you

News  Oh yes I always like news  What is it  why do you
smile so  where did you hear it  at Randalls

He had time only to say

No not at Randalls I have not been near Randalls when the door
was thrown open and Miss Bates and Miss Fairfax walked into the room 
Full of thanks and full of news Miss Bates knew not which to
give quickest  Mr Knightley soon saw that he had lost his moment
and that not another syllable of communication could rest with him

Oh my dear sir how are you this morning  My dear Miss Woodhouse  
I come quite over powered Such a beautiful hind quarter of pork 
You are too bountiful  Have you heard the news  Mr Elton is going
to be married

Emma had not had time even to think of Mr Elton and she was
so completely surprized that she could not avoid a little start
and a little blush at the sound

There is my news  I thought it would interest you
said Mr Knightley with a smile which implied a conviction
of some part of what had passed between them

But where could you hear it cried Miss Bates  Where could
you possibly hear it Mr Knightley  For it is not five minutes
since I received Mrs Cole's note  no it cannot be more than five  
or at least ten  for I had got my bonnet and spencer on just ready
to come out  I was only gone down to speak to Patty again about
the pork  Jane was standing in the passage  were not you Jane  
for my mother was so afraid that we had not any salting pan
large enough  So I said I would go down and see and Jane said
Shall I go down instead for I think you have a little cold
and Patty has been washing the kitchen  Oh my dear
said I  well and just then came the note  A Miss Hawkins  
that's all I know  A Miss Hawkins of Bath  But Mr Knightley
how could you possibly have heard it for the very moment Mr Cole
told Mrs Cole of it she sat down and wrote to me  A Miss Hawkins  

I was with Mr Cole on business an hour and a half ago 
He had just read Elton's letter as I was shewn in and handed it
to me directly

Well that is quite  I suppose there never was a piece of news more
generally interesting  My dear sir you really are too bountiful 
My mother desires her very best compliments and regards and a
thousand thanks and says you really quite oppress her

We consider our Hartfield pork replied Mr Woodhouse  indeed it
certainly is so very superior to all other pork that Emma and I
cannot have a greater pleasure than   

Oh my dear sir as my mother says our friends are only too good
to us  If ever there were people who without having great wealth
themselves had every thing they could wish for I am sure it is us 
We may well say that our lot is cast in a goodly heritage 
Well Mr Knightley and so you actually saw the letter well  

It was short  merely to announce  but cheerful exulting of course  
Here was a sly glance at Emma  He had been so fortunate as to  
I forget the precise words  one has no business to remember them 
The information was as you state that he was going to be married
to a Miss Hawkins  By his style I should imagine it just settled

Mr Elton going to be married said Emma as soon as she could speak 
He will have every body's wishes for his happiness

He is very young to settle was Mr Woodhouse's observation 
He had better not be in a hurry  He seemed to me very well off
as he was  We were always glad to see him at Hartfield

A new neighbour for us all Miss Woodhouse said Miss Bates
joyfully my mother is so pleased  she says she cannot
bear to have the poor old Vicarage without a mistress 
This is great news indeed  Jane you have never seen
Mr Elton  no wonder that you have such a curiosity to see him

Jane's curiosity did not appear of that absorbing nature as wholly
to occupy her

No  I have never seen Mr Elton she replied starting on this appeal
is he  is he a tall man

Who shall answer that question cried Emma  My father would
say yes Mr Knightley no and Miss Bates and I that he is
just the happy medium  When you have been here a little longer
Miss Fairfax you will understand that Mr Elton is the standard
of perfection in Highbury both in person and mind

Very true Miss Woodhouse so she will  He is the very best
young man  But my dear Jane if you remember I told you yesterday
he was precisely the height of Mr Perry  Miss Hawkins  I dare say
an excellent young woman  His extreme attention to my mother  
wanting her to sit in the vicarage pew that she might hear the better
for my mother is a little deaf you know  it is not much but she
does not hear quite quick  Jane says that Colonel Campbell is a
little deaf  He fancied bathing might be good for it  the warm bath  
but she says it did him no lasting benefit  Colonel Campbell
you know is quite our angel  And Mr Dixon seems a very charming
young man quite worthy of him  It is such a happiness when good
people get together  and they always do  Now here will be Mr Elton
and Miss Hawkins and there are the Coles such very good people
and the Perrys  I suppose there never was a happier or a better couple
than Mr and Mrs Perry  I say sir turning to Mr Woodhouse
I think there are few places with such society as Highbury 
I always say we are quite blessed in our neighbours  My dear sir
if there is one thing my mother loves better than another it is pork  
a roast loin of pork  

As to who or what Miss Hawkins is or how long he has been
acquainted with her said Emma nothing I suppose can be known 
One feels that it cannot be a very long acquaintance  He has been
gone only four weeks

Nobody had any information to give and after a few more wonderings
Emma said

You are silent Miss Fairfax  but I hope you mean to take
an interest in this news  You who have been hearing and seeing
so much of late on these subjects who must have been so deep
in the business on Miss Campbell's account  we shall not excuse
your being indifferent about Mr Elton and Miss Hawkins

When I have seen Mr Elton replied Jane  I dare say I
shall be interested  but I believe it requires that with me 
And as it is some months since Miss Campbell married the impression
may be a little worn off

Yes he has been gone just four weeks as you observe Miss Woodhouse
said Miss Bates four weeks yesterday  A Miss Hawkins  Well I had
always rather fancied it would be some young lady hereabouts
not that I ever  Mrs Cole once whispered to me  but I immediately said
No Mr Elton is a most worthy young man  but  In short I do
not think I am particularly quick at those sort of discoveries 
I do not pretend to it  What is before me I see  At the same time
nobody could wonder if Mr Elton should have aspired  Miss Woodhouse
lets me chatter on so good humouredly She knows I would not
offend for the world  How does Miss Smith do  She seems quite
recovered now  Have you heard from Mrs John Knightley lately 
Oh those dear little children  Jane do you know I always fancy
Mr Dixon like Mr John Knightley  I mean in person  tall and with
that sort of look  and not very talkative

Quite wrong my dear aunt there is no likeness at all

Very odd but one never does form a just idea of any body beforehand 
One takes up a notion and runs away with it  Mr Dixon you say
is not strictly speaking handsome

Handsome  Oh no  far from it  certainly plain  I told you he
was plain

My dear you said that Miss Campbell would not allow him to be plain
and that you yourself  

Oh as for me my judgment is worth nothing  Where I have a regard
I always think a person well looking But I gave what I believed
the general opinion when I called him plain

Well my dear Jane I believe we must be running away 
The weather does not look well and grandmama will be uneasy 
You are too obliging my dear Miss Woodhouse but we really must
take leave  This has been a most agreeable piece of news indeed 
I shall just go round by Mrs Cole's but I shall not stop three minutes 
and Jane you had better go home directly  I would not have you
out in a shower  We think she is the better for Highbury already 
Thank you we do indeed  I shall not attempt calling on Mrs Goddard
for I really do not think she cares for any thing but boiled pork 
when we dress the leg it will be another thing  Good morning to you
my dear sir  Oh  Mr Knightley is coming too  Well that is
so very  I am sure if Jane is tired you will be so kind as to
give her your arm  Mr Elton and Miss Hawkins  Good morning
to you

Emma alone with her father had half her attention wanted by him
while he lamented that young people would be in such a hurry to marry  
and to marry strangers too  and the other half she could give
to her own view of the subject  It was to herself an amusing
and a very welcome piece of news as proving that Mr Elton
could not have suffered long but she was sorry for Harriet 
Harriet must feel it  and all that she could hope was by giving
the first information herself to save her from hearing it abruptly
from others  It was now about the time that she was likely to call 
If she were to meet Miss Bates in her way  and upon its beginning
to rain Emma was obliged to expect that the weather would be
detaining her at Mrs Goddard's and that the intelligence would
undoubtedly rush upon her without preparation

The shower was heavy but short and it had not been over five minutes
when in came Harriet with just the heated agitated look which
hurrying thither with a full heart was likely to give and the
Oh Miss Woodhouse what do you think has happened which instantly
burst forth had all the evidence of corresponding perturbation 
As the blow was given Emma felt that she could not now shew greater
kindness than in listening and Harriet unchecked ran eagerly
through what she had to tell  She had set out from Mrs Goddard's
half an hour ago  she had been afraid it would rain  she had been
afraid it would pour down every moment  but she thought she might
get to Hartfield first  she had hurried on as fast as possible
but then as she was passing by the house where a young woman
was making up a gown for her she thought she would just step
in and see how it went on and though she did not seem to stay
half a moment there soon after she came out it began to rain
and she did not know what to do so she ran on directly as fast
as she could and took shelter at Ford's  Ford's was the principal
woollen draper linen draper and haberdasher's shop united
the shop first in size and fashion in the place  And so
there she had set without an idea of any thing in the world
full ten minutes perhaps  when all of a sudden who should come in  
to be sure it was so very odd  but they always dealt at Ford's  
who should come in but Elizabeth Martin and her brother  
Dear Miss Woodhouse only think  I thought I should have fainted 
I did not know what to do  I was sitting near the door  Elizabeth saw
me directly but he did not he was busy with the umbrella 
I am sure she saw me but she looked away directly and took
no notice and they both went to quite the farther end of the shop
and I kept sitting near the door  Oh dear I was so miserable 
I am sure I must have been as white as my gown  I could not go away
you know because of the rain but I did so wish myself anywhere
in the world but there  Oh dear Miss Woodhouse  well at last
I fancy he looked round and saw me for instead of going
on with her buyings they began whispering to one another 
I am sure they were talking of me and I could not help thinking
that he was persuading her to speak to me  do you think he was
Miss Woodhouse  for presently she came forward  came quite up
to me and asked me how I did and seemed ready to shake hands
if I would  She did not do any of it in the same way that she used
I could see she was altered but however she seemed to try to be
very friendly and we shook hands and stood talking some time
but I know no more what I said  I was in such a tremble  I remember
she said she was sorry we never met now which I thought almost
too kind  Dear Miss Woodhouse I was absolutely miserable 
By that time it was beginning to hold up and I was determined
that nothing should stop me from getting away  and then  only think  
I found he was coming up towards me too  slowly you know and as
if he did not quite know what to do and so he came and spoke
and I answered  and I stood for a minute feeling dreadfully
you know one can't tell how and then I took courage and said it
did not rain and I must go and so off I set and I had not got
three yards from the door when he came after me only to say
if I was going to Hartfield he thought I had much better go round
by Mr Cole's stables for I should find the near way quite floated
by this rain  Oh dear I thought it would have been the death of me 
So I said I was very much obliged to him  you know I could
not do less and then he went back to Elizabeth and I came round
by the stables  I believe I did  but I hardly knew where I was
or any thing about it  Oh  Miss Woodhouse I would rather done
any thing than have it happen  and yet you know there was a sort
of satisfaction in seeing him behave so pleasantly and so kindly 
And Elizabeth too  Oh  Miss Woodhouse do talk to me and make
me comfortable again

Very sincerely did Emma wish to do so but it was not immediately in
her power  She was obliged to stop and think  She was not thoroughly
comfortable herself  The young man's conduct and his sister's
seemed the result of real feeling and she could not but pity them 
As Harriet described it there had been an interesting mixture
of wounded affection and genuine delicacy in their behaviour 
But she had believed them to be well meaning worthy people before
and what difference did this make in the evils of the connexion 
It was folly to be disturbed by it  Of course he must be sorry
to lose her  they must be all sorry  Ambition as well as love
had probably been mortified  They might all have hoped to rise
by Harriet's acquaintance  and besides what was the value of
Harriet's description  So easily pleased  so little discerning  
what signified her praise

She exerted herself and did try to make her comfortable
by considering all that had passed as a mere trifle and quite
unworthy of being dwelt on

It might be distressing for the moment said she but you seem
to have behaved extremely well and it is over  and may never  
can never as a first meeting occur again and therefore you need
not think about it

Harriet said very true and she would not think about it
but still she talked of it  still she could talk of nothing else
and Emma at last in order to put the Martins out of her head
was obliged to hurry on the news which she had meant to give
with so much tender caution hardly knowing herself whether
to rejoice or be angry ashamed or only amused at such a state
of mind in poor Harriet  such a conclusion of Mr Elton's importance
with her

Mr Elton's rights however gradually revived  Though she did not
feel the first intelligence as she might have done the day before
or an hour before its interest soon increased and before their
first conversation was over she had talked herself into all the
sensations of curiosity wonder and regret pain and pleasure
as to this fortunate Miss Hawkins which could conduce to place
the Martins under proper subordination in her fancy

Emma learned to be rather glad that there had been such a meeting 
It had been serviceable in deadening the first shock without retaining
any influence to alarm  As Harriet now lived the Martins could
not get at her without seeking her where hitherto they had wanted
either the courage or the condescension to seek her for since her
refusal of the brother the sisters never had been at Mrs Goddard's
and a twelvemonth might pass without their being thrown together again
with any necessity or even any power of speech



CHAPTER IV


Human nature is so well disposed towards those who are in
interesting situations that a young person who either marries
or dies is sure of being kindly spoken of

A week had not passed since Miss Hawkins's name was first
mentioned in Highbury before she was by some means or other
discovered to have every recommendation of person and mind
to be handsome elegant highly accomplished and perfectly amiable 
and when Mr Elton himself arrived to triumph in his happy prospects
and circulate the fame of her merits there was very little more
for him to do than to tell her Christian name and say whose
music she principally played

Mr Elton returned a very happy man  He had gone away rejected
and mortified  disappointed in a very sanguine hope after a series
of what appeared to him strong encouragement and not only losing
the right lady but finding himself debased to the level of a very
wrong one  He had gone away deeply offended  he came back engaged
to another  and to another as superior of course to the first
as under such circumstances what is gained always is to what is lost 
He came back gay and self satisfied eager and busy caring nothing
for Miss Woodhouse and defying Miss Smith

The charming Augusta Hawkins in addition to all the usual advantages
of perfect beauty and merit was in possession of an independent fortune
of so many thousands as would always be called ten a point of
some dignity as well as some convenience  the story told well
he had not thrown himself away  he had gained a woman of 10000 l 
or thereabouts and he had gained her with such delightful rapidity  
the first hour of introduction had been so very soon followed by
distinguishing notice the history which he had to give Mrs Cole
of the rise and progress of the affair was so glorious  the steps
so quick from the accidental rencontre to the dinner at Mr Green's
and the party at Mrs Brown's  smiles and blushes rising in importance  
with consciousness and agitation richly scattered  the lady
had been so easily impressed  so sweetly disposed  had in short
to use a most intelligible phrase been so very ready to have him
that vanity and prudence were equally contented

He had caught both substance and shadow  both fortune and affection
and was just the happy man he ought to be talking only of himself
and his own concerns  expecting to be congratulated  ready to be
laughed at  and with cordial fearless smiles now addressing
all the young ladies of the place to whom a few weeks ago
he would have been more cautiously gallant

The wedding was no distant event as the parties had only themselves
to please and nothing but the necessary preparations to wait for
and when he set out for Bath again there was a general expectation
which a certain glance of Mrs Cole's did not seem to contradict
that when he next entered Highbury he would bring his bride

During his present short stay Emma had barely seen him but just
enough to feel that the first meeting was over and to give her
the impression of his not being improved by the mixture of pique
and pretension now spread over his air  She was in fact
beginning very much to wonder that she had ever thought him pleasing
at all and his sight was so inseparably connected with some very
disagreeable feelings that except in a moral light as a penance
a lesson a source of profitable humiliation to her own mind
she would have been thankful to be assured of never seeing him again 
She wished him very well but he gave her pain and his welfare
twenty miles off would administer most satisfaction

The pain of his continued residence in Highbury however must certainly
be lessened by his marriage  Many vain solicitudes would be prevented  
many awkwardnesses smoothed by it  A Mrs Elton would be an excuse for
any change of intercourse former intimacy might sink without remark 
It would be almost beginning their life of civility again

Of the lady individually Emma thought very little  She was good
enough for Mr Elton no doubt accomplished enough for Highbury  
handsome enough  to look plain probably by Harriet's side 
As to connexion there Emma was perfectly easy persuaded
that after all his own vaunted claims and disdain of Harriet
he had done nothing  On that article truth seemed attainable 
What she was must be uncertain but who she was might be found out
and setting aside the 10000 l it did not appear that she was at
all Harriet's superior  She brought no name no blood no alliance 
Miss Hawkins was the youngest of the two daughters of a Bristol  
merchant of course he must be called but as the whole of the
profits of his mercantile life appeared so very moderate it was
not unfair to guess the dignity of his line of trade had been very
moderate also  Part of every winter she had been used to spend in Bath
but Bristol was her home the very heart of Bristol for though
the father and mother had died some years ago an uncle remained  
in the law line  nothing more distinctly honourable was hazarded
of him than that he was in the law line and with him the daughter
had lived  Emma guessed him to be the drudge of some attorney
and too stupid to rise  And all the grandeur of the connexion
seemed dependent on the elder sister who was very well married
to a gentleman in a great way near Bristol who kept two carriages 
That was the wind up of the history that was the glory of
Miss Hawkins

Could she but have given Harriet her feelings about it all 
She had talked her into love but alas she was not so easily to be
talked out of it  The charm of an object to occupy the many vacancies
of Harriet's mind was not to be talked away  He might be superseded
by another he certainly would indeed nothing could be clearer
even a Robert Martin would have been sufficient but nothing else
she feared would cure her  Harriet was one of those who
having once begun would be always in love  And now poor girl
she was considerably worse from this reappearance of Mr Elton 
She was always having a glimpse of him somewhere or other  Emma saw
him only once but two or three times every day Harriet was sure
just to meet with him or just to miss him just to hear his voice
or see his shoulder just to have something occur to preserve him
in her fancy in all the favouring warmth of surprize and conjecture 
She was moreover perpetually hearing about him for excepting when
at Hartfield she was always among those who saw no fault in Mr Elton
and found nothing so interesting as the discussion of his concerns
and every report therefore every guess  all that had already
occurred all that might occur in the arrangement of his affairs
comprehending income servants and furniture was continually
in agitation around her  Her regard was receiving strength by
invariable praise of him and her regrets kept alive and feelings
irritated by ceaseless repetitions of Miss Hawkins's happiness
and continual observation of how much he seemed attached  
his air as he walked by the house  the very sitting of his hat
being all in proof of how much he was in love

Had it been allowable entertainment had there been no pain
to her friend or reproach to herself in the waverings of
Harriet's mind Emma would have been amused by its variations 
Sometimes Mr Elton predominated sometimes the Martins and each
was occasionally useful as a check to the other  Mr Elton's
engagement had been the cure of the agitation of meeting Mr Martin 
The unhappiness produced by the knowledge of that engagement had been
a little put aside by Elizabeth Martin's calling at Mrs Goddard's
a few days afterwards  Harriet had not been at home but a note had
been prepared and left for her written in the very style to touch
a small mixture of reproach with a great deal of kindness
and till Mr Elton himself appeared she had been much occupied
by it continually pondering over what could be done in return
and wishing to do more than she dared to confess  But Mr Elton
in person had driven away all such cares  While he staid
the Martins were forgotten and on the very morning of his setting off
for Bath again Emma to dissipate some of the distress it occasioned
judged it best for her to return Elizabeth Martin's visit

How that visit was to be acknowledged  what would be necessary  
and what might be safest had been a point of some doubtful
consideration  Absolute neglect of the mother and sisters
when invited to come would be ingratitude  It must not be 
and yet the danger of a renewal of the acquaintance  

After much thinking she could determine on nothing better than Harriet's
returning the visit but in a way that if they had understanding
should convince them that it was to be only a formal acquaintance 
She meant to take her in the carriage leave her at the Abbey Mill
while she drove a little farther and call for her again so soon
as to allow no time for insidious applications or dangerous
recurrences to the past and give the most decided proof of what
degree of intimacy was chosen for the future

She could think of nothing better  and though there was something
in it which her own heart could not approve  something of ingratitude
merely glossed over  it must be done or what would become of Harriet



CHAPTER V


Small heart had Harriet for visiting  Only half an hour before her
friend called for her at Mrs Goddard's her evil stars had led
her to the very spot where at that moment a trunk directed to
The Rev Philip Elton White Hart Bath was to be seen under the
operation of being lifted into the butcher's cart which was to
convey it to where the coaches past and every thing in this world
excepting that trunk and the direction was consequently a blank

She went however and when they reached the farm and she was to
be put down at the end of the broad neat gravel walk which led
between espalier apple trees to the front door the sight of every
thing which had given her so much pleasure the autumn before
was beginning to revive a little local agitation and when they parted
Emma observed her to be looking around with a sort of fearful curiosity
which determined her not to allow the visit to exceed the proposed
quarter of an hour  She went on herself to give that portion
of time to an old servant who was married and settled in Donwell

The quarter of an hour brought her punctually to the white gate again
and Miss Smith receiving her summons was with her without delay
and unattended by any alarming young man  She came solitarily
down the gravel walk  a Miss Martin just appearing at the door
and parting with her seemingly with ceremonious civility

Harriet could not very soon give an intelligible account 
She was feeling too much but at last Emma collected from her
enough to understand the sort of meeting and the sort of pain it
was creating  She had seen only Mrs Martin and the two girls 
They had received her doubtingly if not coolly and nothing
beyond the merest commonplace had been talked almost all the time  
till just at last when Mrs Martin's saying all of a sudden
that she thought Miss Smith was grown had brought on a more
interesting subject and a warmer manner  In that very room
she had been measured last September with her two friends 
There were the pencilled marks and memorandums on the wainscot by
the window  He had done it  They all seemed to remember the day
the hour the party the occasion  to feel the same consciousness
the same regrets  to be ready to return to the same good understanding
and they were just growing again like themselves Harriet as Emma
must suspect as ready as the best of them to be cordial and happy
when the carriage reappeared and all was over  The style of
the visit and the shortness of it were then felt to be decisive 
Fourteen minutes to be given to those with whom she had thankfully
passed six weeks not six months ago  Emma could not but picture
it all and feel how justly they might resent how naturally
Harriet must suffer  It was a bad business  She would have given
a great deal or endured a great deal to have had the Martins
in a higher rank of life  They were so deserving that a little
higher should have been enough  but as it was how could she have
done otherwise  Impossible  She could not repent  They must
be separated but there was a great deal of pain in the process  
so much to herself at this time that she soon felt the necessity
of a little consolation and resolved on going home by way of Randalls
to procure it  Her mind was quite sick of Mr Elton and the Martins 
The refreshment of Randalls was absolutely necessary

It was a good scheme but on driving to the door they heard
that neither master nor mistress was at home they had both
been out some time the man believed they were gone to Hartfield

This is too bad cried Emma as they turned away  And now we
shall just miss them too provoking  I do not know when I have been
so disappointed  And she leaned back in the corner to indulge
her murmurs or to reason them away probably a little of both  
such being the commonest process of a not ill disposed mind 
Presently the carriage stopt she looked up it was stopt
by Mr and Mrs Weston who were standing to speak to her 
There was instant pleasure in the sight of them and still greater
pleasure was conveyed in sound  for Mr Weston immediately accosted
her with

How d'ye do  how d'ye do  We have been sitting with your father  
glad to see him so well  Frank comes to morrow  I had a letter
this morning  we see him to morrow by dinner time to a certainty  
he is at Oxford to day and he comes for a whole fortnight I knew it would
be so  If he had come at Christmas he could not have staid three days
I was always glad he did not come at Christmas now we are going
to have just the right weather for him fine dry settled weather 
We shall enjoy him completely every thing has turned out exactly
as we could wish

There was no resisting such news no possibility of avoiding the
influence of such a happy face as Mr Weston's confirmed as it all
was by the words and the countenance of his wife fewer and quieter
but not less to the purpose  To know that she thought his coming
certain was enough to make Emma consider it so and sincerely did
she rejoice in their joy  It was a most delightful reanimation
of exhausted spirits  The worn out past was sunk in the freshness
of what was coming and in the rapidity of half a moment's thought
she hoped Mr Elton would now be talked of no more

Mr Weston gave her the history of the engagements at Enscombe
which allowed his son to answer for having an entire fortnight at
his command as well as the route and the method of his journey
and she listened and smiled and congratulated

I shall soon bring him over to Hartfield said he at the conclusion

Emma could imagine she saw a touch of the arm at this speech
from his wife

We had better move on Mr Weston said she we are detaining
the girls

Well well I am ready  and turning again to Emma but you must
not be expecting such a very fine young man you have only had my
account you know I dare say he is really nothing extraordinary  
though his own sparkling eyes at the moment were speaking a very
different conviction

Emma could look perfectly unconscious and innocent and answer
in a manner that appropriated nothing

Think of me to morrow my dear Emma about four o'clock
was Mrs Weston's parting injunction spoken with some anxiety
and meant only for her

Four o'clock  depend upon it he will be here by three was Mr Weston's
quick amendment and so ended a most satisfactory meeting 
Emma's spirits were mounted quite up to happiness every thing wore
a different air James and his horses seemed not half so sluggish
as before  When she looked at the hedges she thought the elder at
least must soon be coming out and when she turned round to Harriet
she saw something like a look of spring a tender smile even there

Will Mr Frank Churchill pass through Bath as well as Oxford  
was a question however which did not augur much

But neither geography nor tranquillity could come all at once
and Emma was now in a humour to resolve that they should both come
in time

The morning of the interesting day arrived and Mrs Weston's
faithful pupil did not forget either at ten or eleven or twelve
o'clock that she was to think of her at four

My dear dear anxious friend  said she in mental soliloquy
while walking downstairs from her own room always overcareful
for every body's comfort but your own I see you now in all your
little fidgets going again and again into his room to be sure
that all is right  The clock struck twelve as she passed through
the hall  Tis twelve I shall not forget to think of you four
hours hence and by this time to morrow perhaps or a little later
I may be thinking of the possibility of their all calling here 
I am sure they will bring him soon

She opened the parlour door and saw two gentlemen sitting with
her father  Mr Weston and his son  They had been arrived only
a few minutes and Mr Weston had scarcely finished his explanation
of Frank's being a day before his time and her father was yet
in the midst of his very civil welcome and congratulations when
she appeared to have her share of surprize introduction and pleasure

The Frank Churchill so long talked of so high in interest
was actually before her  he was presented to her and she did
not think too much had been said in his praise he was a very good
looking young man height air address all were unexceptionable
and his countenance had a great deal of the spirit and liveliness
of his father's he looked quick and sensible  She felt immediately
that she should like him and there was a well bred ease of manner
and a readiness to talk which convinced her that he came intending
to be acquainted with her and that acquainted they soon must be

He had reached Randalls the evening before  She was pleased
with the eagerness to arrive which had made him alter his plan
and travel earlier later and quicker that he might gain half
a day

I told you yesterday cried Mr Weston with exultation I told
you all that he would be here before the time named  I remembered
what I used to do myself  One cannot creep upon a journey
one cannot help getting on faster than one has planned and the
pleasure of coming in upon one's friends before the look out begins
is worth a great deal more than any little exertion it needs

It is a great pleasure where one can indulge in it said the young man
though there are not many houses that I should presume on so far
but in coming home I felt I might do any thing

The word home made his father look on him with fresh complacency 
Emma was directly sure that he knew how to make himself agreeable
the conviction was strengthened by what followed  He was very much
pleased with Randalls thought it a most admirably arranged house
would hardly allow it even to be very small admired the situation
the walk to Highbury Highbury itself Hartfield still more
and professed himself to have always felt the sort of interest
in the country which none but one's own country gives and the
greatest curiosity to visit it  That he should never have been
able to indulge so amiable a feeling before passed suspiciously
through Emma's brain but still if it were a falsehood it was a
pleasant one and pleasantly handled  His manner had no air of study
or exaggeration  He did really look and speak as if in a state of no
common enjoyment

Their subjects in general were such as belong to an opening acquaintance 
On his side were the inquiries  Was she a horsewoman  Pleasant rides  
Pleasant walks  Had they a large neighbourhood  Highbury perhaps
afforded society enough  There were several very pretty houses
in and about it  Balls  had they balls  Was it a musical society

But when satisfied on all these points and their acquaintance
proportionably advanced he contrived to find an opportunity
while their two fathers were engaged with each other of introducing
his mother in law and speaking of her with so much handsome praise
so much warm admiration so much gratitude for the happiness she
secured to his father and her very kind reception of himself
as was an additional proof of his knowing how to please  
and of his certainly thinking it worth while to try to please her 
He did not advance a word of praise beyond what she knew to be
thoroughly deserved by Mrs Weston but undoubtedly he could know
very little of the matter  He understood what would be welcome
he could be sure of little else  His father's marriage he said
had been the wisest measure every friend must rejoice in it
and the family from whom he had received such a blessing must
be ever considered as having conferred the highest obligation
on him

He got as near as he could to thanking her for Miss Taylor's merits
without seeming quite to forget that in the common course of things it
was to be rather supposed that Miss Taylor had formed Miss Woodhouse's
character than Miss Woodhouse Miss Taylor's And at last as if resolved
to qualify his opinion completely for travelling round to its object he
wound it all up with astonishment at the youth and beauty of her person

Elegant agreeable manners I was prepared for said he
but I confess that considering every thing I had not expected
more than a very tolerably well looking woman of a certain age
I did not know that I was to find a pretty young woman in Mrs Weston

You cannot see too much perfection in Mrs Weston for my feelings
said Emma were you to guess her to be eighteen I should listen
with pleasure but she would be ready to quarrel with you for using
such words  Don't let her imagine that you have spoken of her as
a pretty young woman

I hope I should know better he replied no depend upon it
with a gallant bow that in addressing Mrs Weston I should
understand whom I might praise without any danger of being thought
extravagant in my terms

Emma wondered whether the same suspicion of what might be expected
from their knowing each other which had taken strong possession
of her mind had ever crossed his and whether his compliments were
to be considered as marks of acquiescence or proofs of defiance 
She must see more of him to understand his ways at present she
only felt they were agreeable

She had no doubt of what Mr Weston was often thinking about 
His quick eye she detected again and again glancing towards them
with a happy expression and even when he might have determined not
to look she was confident that he was often listening

Her own father's perfect exemption from any thought of the kind
the entire deficiency in him of all such sort of penetration
or suspicion was a most comfortable circumstance  Happily he
was not farther from approving matrimony than from foreseeing it  
Though always objecting to every marriage that was arranged
he never suffered beforehand from the apprehension of any
it seemed as if he could not think so ill of any two persons
understanding as to suppose they meant to marry till it were
proved against them  She blessed the favouring blindness 
He could now without the drawback of a single unpleasant surmise
without a glance forward at any possible treachery in his guest
give way to all his natural kind hearted civility in solicitous
inquiries after Mr Frank Churchill's accommodation on his journey
through the sad evils of sleeping two nights on the road and express
very genuine unmixed anxiety to know that he had certainly escaped
catching cold  which however he could not allow him to feel quite
assured of himself till after another night

A reasonable visit paid Mr Weston began to move  He must be going 
He had business at the Crown about his hay and a great many errands
for Mrs Weston at Ford's but he need not hurry any body else 
His son too well bred to hear the hint rose immediately also
saying

As you are going farther on business sir I will take the
opportunity of paying a visit which must be paid some day or other
and therefore may as well be paid now  I have the honour of being
acquainted with a neighbour of yours turning to Emma a lady
residing in or near Highbury a family of the name of Fairfax 
I shall have no difficulty I suppose in finding the house
though Fairfax I believe is not the proper name  I should rather
say Barnes or Bates  Do you know any family of that name

To be sure we do cried his father Mrs Bates  we passed her house  
I saw Miss Bates at the window  True true you are acquainted
with Miss Fairfax I remember you knew her at Weymouth and a fine
girl she is  Call upon her by all means

There is no necessity for my calling this morning said the
young man another day would do as well but there was that degree
of acquaintance at Weymouth which  

Oh go to day go to day Do not defer it  What is right to be done
cannot be done too soon  And besides I must give you a hint Frank
any want of attention to her here should be carefully avoided 
You saw her with the Campbells when she was the equal of every body
she mixed with but here she is with a poor old grandmother
who has barely enough to live on  If you do not call early it
will be a slight

The son looked convinced

I have heard her speak of the acquaintance said Emma she is
a very elegant young woman

He agreed to it but with so quiet a Yes as inclined her almost
to doubt his real concurrence and yet there must be a very distinct
sort of elegance for the fashionable world if Jane Fairfax could
be thought only ordinarily gifted with it

If you were never particularly struck by her manners before
said she I think you will to day You will see her to advantage
see her and hear her  no I am afraid you will not hear her at all
for she has an aunt who never holds her tongue

You are acquainted with Miss Jane Fairfax sir are you
said Mr Woodhouse always the last to make his way in conversation
then give me leave to assure you that you will find her a very
agreeable young lady  She is staying here on a visit to her grandmama
and aunt very worthy people I have known them all my life 
They will be extremely glad to see you I am sure and one of my
servants shall go with you to shew you the way

My dear sir upon no account in the world my father can direct me

But your father is not going so far he is only going to the Crown
quite on the other side of the street and there are a great many houses
you might be very much at a loss and it is a very dirty walk
unless you keep on the footpath but my coachman can tell you
where you had best cross the street

Mr Frank Churchill still declined it looking as serious as he could
and his father gave his hearty support by calling out My good friend
this is quite unnecessary Frank knows a puddle of water when he
sees it and as to Mrs Bates's he may get there from the Crown
in a hop step and jump

They were permitted to go alone and with a cordial nod from one
and a graceful bow from the other the two gentlemen took leave 
Emma remained very well pleased with this beginning of the acquaintance
and could now engage to think of them all at Randalls any hour of
the day with full confidence in their comfort



CHAPTER VI


The next morning brought Mr Frank Churchill again  He came with
Mrs Weston to whom and to Highbury he seemed to take very cordially 
He had been sitting with her it appeared most companionably at home
till her usual hour of exercise and on being desired to chuse
their walk immediately fixed on Highbury  He did not doubt there
being very pleasant walks in every direction but if left to him
he should always chuse the same  Highbury that airy cheerful
happy looking Highbury would be his constant attraction  
Highbury with Mrs Weston stood for Hartfield and she trusted to
its bearing the same construction with him  They walked thither directly

Emma had hardly expected them  for Mr Weston who had called in
for half a minute in order to hear that his son was very handsome
knew nothing of their plans and it was an agreeable surprize
to her therefore to perceive them walking up to the house together
arm in arm  She was wanting to see him again and especially
to see him in company with Mrs Weston upon his behaviour to whom
her opinion of him was to depend  If he were deficient there
nothing should make amends for it  But on seeing them together
she became perfectly satisfied  It was not merely in fine words
or hyperbolical compliment that he paid his duty nothing could be
more proper or pleasing than his whole manner to her  nothing could
more agreeably denote his wish of considering her as a friend and
securing her affection  And there was time enough for Emma to form a
reasonable judgment as their visit included all the rest of the morning 
They were all three walking about together for an hour or two  
first round the shrubberies of Hartfield and afterwards in Highbury 
He was delighted with every thing admired Hartfield sufficiently
for Mr Woodhouse's ear and when their going farther was resolved on
confessed his wish to be made acquainted with the whole village
and found matter of commendation and interest much oftener than Emma
could have supposed

Some of the objects of his curiosity spoke very amiable feelings 
He begged to be shewn the house which his father had lived in so long
and which had been the home of his father's father and on recollecting
that an old woman who had nursed him was still living walked in quest
of her cottage from one end of the street to the other and though
in some points of pursuit or observation there was no positive merit
they shewed altogether a good will towards Highbury in general
which must be very like a merit to those he was with

Emma watched and decided that with such feelings as were now shewn
it could not be fairly supposed that he had been ever voluntarily
absenting himself that he had not been acting a part or making
a parade of insincere professions and that Mr Knightley certainly
had not done him justice

Their first pause was at the Crown Inn an inconsiderable house
though the principal one of the sort where a couple of pair of
post horses were kept more for the convenience of the neighbourhood
than from any run on the road and his companions had not expected
to be detained by any interest excited there but in passing it they
gave the history of the large room visibly added it had been built
many years ago for a ball room and while the neighbourhood had been
in a particularly populous dancing state had been occasionally used
as such  but such brilliant days had long passed away and now the
highest purpose for which it was ever wanted was to accommodate a whist
club established among the gentlemen and half gentlemen of the place 
He was immediately interested  Its character as a ball room caught him
and instead of passing on he stopt for several minutes at the two
superior sashed windows which were open to look in and contemplate
its capabilities and lament that its original purpose should
have ceased  He saw no fault in the room he would acknowledge
none which they suggested  No it was long enough broad enough
handsome enough  It would hold the very number for comfort 
They ought to have balls there at least every fortnight through
the winter  Why had not Miss Woodhouse revived the former good
old days of the room  She who could do any thing in Highbury 
The want of proper families in the place and the conviction
that none beyond the place and its immediate environs could be
tempted to attend were mentioned but he was not satisfied 
He could not be persuaded that so many good looking houses as he saw
around him could not furnish numbers enough for such a meeting
and even when particulars were given and families described he was
still unwilling to admit that the inconvenience of such a mixture
would be any thing or that there would be the smallest difficulty
in every body's returning into their proper place the next morning 
He argued like a young man very much bent on dancing and Emma
was rather surprized to see the constitution of the Weston prevail
so decidedly against the habits of the Churchills  He seemed to have
all the life and spirit cheerful feelings and social inclinations
of his father and nothing of the pride or reserve of Enscombe 
Of pride indeed there was perhaps scarcely enough his indifference
to a confusion of rank bordered too much on inelegance of mind 
He could be no judge however of the evil he was holding cheap 
It was but an effusion of lively spirits

At last he was persuaded to move on from the front of the Crown
and being now almost facing the house where the Bateses lodged
Emma recollected his intended visit the day before and asked him
if he had paid it

Yes oh yes  he replied I was just going to mention it 
A very successful visit  I saw all the three ladies and felt very
much obliged to you for your preparatory hint  If the talking aunt
had taken me quite by surprize it must have been the death of me 
As it was I was only betrayed into paying a most unreasonable visit 
Ten minutes would have been all that was necessary perhaps all that
was proper and I had told my father I should certainly be at home
before him  but there was no getting away no pause and to my
utter astonishment I found when he finding me nowhere else
joined me there at last that I had been actually sitting with them
very nearly three quarters of an hour  The good lady had not given me
the possibility of escape before

And how did you think Miss Fairfax looking

Ill very ill  that is if a young lady can ever be allowed to look ill 
But the expression is hardly admissible Mrs Weston is it 
Ladies can never look ill  And seriously Miss Fairfax is naturally
so pale as almost always to give the appearance of ill health  
A most deplorable want of complexion

Emma would not agree to this and began a warm defence of Miss
Fairfax's complexion  It was certainly never brilliant but she
would not allow it to have a sickly hue in general and there was
a softness and delicacy in her skin which gave peculiar elegance
to the character of her face  He listened with all due deference
acknowledged that he had heard many people say the same  but yet he
must confess that to him nothing could make amends for the want
of the fine glow of health  Where features were indifferent
a fine complexion gave beauty to them all and where they were good
the effect was  fortunately he need not attempt to describe what the
effect was

Well said Emma there is no disputing about taste  At least
you admire her except her complexion

He shook his head and laughed  I cannot separate Miss Fairfax
and her complexion

Did you see her often at Weymouth  Were you often in the same society

At this moment they were approaching Ford's and he hastily exclaimed
Ha this must be the very shop that every body attends every day
of their lives as my father informs me  He comes to Highbury himself
he says six days out of the seven and has always business at Ford's
If it be not inconvenient to you pray let us go in that I may prove
myself to belong to the place to be a true citizen of Highbury 
I must buy something at Ford's It will be taking out my freedom  
I dare say they sell gloves

Oh yes gloves and every thing  I do admire your patriotism 
You will be adored in Highbury  You were very popular before you came
because you were Mr Weston's son  but lay out half a guinea at
Ford's and your popularity will stand upon your own virtues

They went in and while the sleek well tied parcels of Men's Beavers
and York Tan were bringing down and displaying on the counter
he said  But I beg your pardon Miss Woodhouse you were speaking
to me you were saying something at the very moment of this burst
of my amor patriae  Do not let me lose it  I assure you the utmost
stretch of public fame would not make me amends for the loss of any
happiness in private life

I merely asked whether you had known much of Miss Fairfax
and her party at Weymouth

And now that I understand your question I must pronounce it to be a
very unfair one  It is always the lady's right to decide on the degree
of acquaintance  Miss Fairfax must already have given her account  
I shall not commit myself by claiming more than she may chuse to allow

Upon my word you answer as discreetly as she could do herself 
But her account of every thing leaves so much to be guessed
she is so very reserved so very unwilling to give the least
information about any body that I really think you may say what you
like of your acquaintance with her

May I indeed  Then I will speak the truth and nothing suits me
so well  I met her frequently at Weymouth  I had known the Campbells
a little in town and at Weymouth we were very much in the same set 
Colonel Campbell is a very agreeable man and Mrs Campbell a friendly
warm hearted woman  I like them all

You know Miss Fairfax's situation in life I conclude what she
is destined to be

Yes  rather hesitatingly  I believe I do

You get upon delicate subjects Emma said Mrs Weston smiling
remember that I am here  Mr Frank Churchill hardly knows
what to say when you speak of Miss Fairfax's situation in life 
I will move a little farther off

I certainly do forget to think of her said Emma as having ever
been any thing but my friend and my dearest friend

He looked as if he fully understood and honoured such a sentiment

When the gloves were bought and they had quitted the shop again
Did you ever hear the young lady we were speaking of play
said Frank Churchill

Ever hear her repeated Emma  You forget how much she belongs
to Highbury  I have heard her every year of our lives since we
both began  She plays charmingly

You think so do you  I wanted the opinion of some one who
could really judge  She appeared to me to play well that is
with considerable taste but I know nothing of the matter myself  
I am excessively fond of music but without the smallest skill
or right of judging of any body's performance  I have been used
to hear her's admired and I remember one proof of her being
thought to play well  a man a very musical man and in love
with another woman  engaged to her  on the point of marriage  
would yet never ask that other woman to sit down to the instrument
if the lady in question could sit down instead  never seemed
to like to hear one if he could hear the other  That I thought
in a man of known musical talent was some proof

Proof indeed said Emma highly amused  Mr Dixon is very musical
is he  We shall know more about them all in half an hour from you
than Miss Fairfax would have vouchsafed in half a year

Yes Mr Dixon and Miss Campbell were the persons and I thought
it a very strong proof

Certainly  very strong it was to own the truth a great deal
stronger than if I had been Miss Campbell would have been at all
agreeable to me  I could not excuse a man's having more music
than love  more ear than eye  a more acute sensibility to fine
sounds than to my feelings  How did Miss Campbell appear to like it

It was her very particular friend you know

Poor comfort said Emma laughing  One would rather have a stranger
preferred than one's very particular friend  with a stranger it might
not recur again  but the misery of having a very particular friend
always at hand to do every thing better than one does oneself  
Poor Mrs Dixon  Well I am glad she is gone to settle in Ireland

You are right  It was not very flattering to Miss Campbell
but she really did not seem to feel it

So much the better  or so much the worse  I do not know which 
But be it sweetness or be it stupidity in her  quickness of friendship
or dulness of feeling  there was one person I think who must have
felt it  Miss Fairfax herself  She must have felt the improper
and dangerous distinction

As to that  I do not  

Oh do not imagine that I expect an account of Miss Fairfax's
sensations from you or from any body else  They are known to no
human being I guess but herself  But if she continued to play
whenever she was asked by Mr Dixon one may guess what one chuses

There appeared such a perfectly good understanding among them all  
he began rather quickly but checking himself added however it
is impossible for me to say on what terms they really were  
how it might all be behind the scenes  I can only say that there
was smoothness outwardly  But you who have known Miss Fairfax from
a child must be a better judge of her character and of how she
is likely to conduct herself in critical situations than I can be

I have known her from a child undoubtedly we have been children
and women together and it is natural to suppose that we should
be intimate  that we should have taken to each other whenever
she visited her friends  But we never did  I hardly know how it
has happened a little perhaps from that wickedness on my side
which was prone to take disgust towards a girl so idolized
and so cried up as she always was by her aunt and grandmother
and all their set  And then her reserve  I never could attach
myself to any one so completely reserved

It is a most repulsive quality indeed said he  Oftentimes
very convenient no doubt but never pleasing  There is safety
in reserve but no attraction  One cannot love a reserved person

Not till the reserve ceases towards oneself and then the attraction
may be the greater  But I must be more in want of a friend
or an agreeable companion than I have yet been to take
the trouble of conquering any body's reserve to procure one 
Intimacy between Miss Fairfax and me is quite out of the question 
I have no reason to think ill of her  not the least  except that
such extreme and perpetual cautiousness of word and manner
such a dread of giving a distinct idea about any body is apt
to suggest suspicions of there being something to conceal

He perfectly agreed with her  and after walking together so long
and thinking so much alike Emma felt herself so well acquainted with him
that she could hardly believe it to be only their second meeting 
He was not exactly what she had expected less of the man of the
world in some of his notions less of the spoiled child of fortune
therefore better than she had expected  His ideas seemed more moderate  
his feelings warmer  She was particularly struck by his manner
of considering Mr Elton's house which as well as the church
he would go and look at and would not join them in finding much
fault with  No he could not believe it a bad house not such a house
as a man was to be pitied for having  If it were to be shared with
the woman he loved he could not think any man to be pitied for having
that house  There must be ample room in it for every real comfort 
The man must be a blockhead who wanted more

Mrs Weston laughed and said he did not know what he was talking about 
Used only to a large house himself and without ever thinking how many
advantages and accommodations were attached to its size he could
be no judge of the privations inevitably belonging to a small one 
But Emma in her own mind determined that he did know what he
was talking about and that he shewed a very amiable inclination
to settle early in life and to marry from worthy motives 
He might not be aware of the inroads on domestic peace to be
occasioned by no housekeeper's room or a bad butler's pantry
but no doubt he did perfectly feel that Enscombe could not make
him happy and that whenever he were attached he would willingly
give up much of wealth to be allowed an early establishment



CHAPTER VII


Emma's very good opinion of Frank Churchill was a little shaken
the following day by hearing that he was gone off to London
merely to have his hair cut  A sudden freak seemed to have seized him
at breakfast and he had sent for a chaise and set off intending to
return to dinner but with no more important view that appeared than
having his hair cut  There was certainly no harm in his travelling
sixteen miles twice over on such an errand but there was an air
of foppery and nonsense in it which she could not approve  It did
not accord with the rationality of plan the moderation in expense
or even the unselfish warmth of heart which she had believed herself
to discern in him yesterday  Vanity extravagance love of change
restlessness of temper which must be doing something good or bad
heedlessness as to the pleasure of his father and Mrs Weston
indifferent as to how his conduct might appear in general he became
liable to all these charges  His father only called him a coxcomb
and thought it a very good story but that Mrs Weston did not like it
was clear enough by her passing it over as quickly as possible
and making no other comment than that all young people would have
their little whims

With the exception of this little blot Emma found that his visit
hitherto had given her friend only good ideas of him  Mrs Weston
was very ready to say how attentive and pleasant a companion he
made himself  how much she saw to like in his disposition altogether 
He appeared to have a very open temper  certainly a very cheerful
and lively one she could observe nothing wrong in his notions
a great deal decidedly right he spoke of his uncle with warm regard
was fond of talking of him  said he would be the best man in the
world if he were left to himself and though there was no being
attached to the aunt he acknowledged her kindness with gratitude
and seemed to mean always to speak of her with respect 
This was all very promising and but for such an unfortunate fancy
for having his hair cut there was nothing to denote him unworthy
of the distinguished honour which her imagination had given him
the honour if not of being really in love with her of being
at least very near it and saved only by her own indifference  
for still her resolution held of never marrying  the honour in short
of being marked out for her by all their joint acquaintance

Mr Weston on his side added a virtue to the account which must
have some weight  He gave her to understand that Frank admired
her extremely  thought her very beautiful and very charming
and with so much to be said for him altogether she found she must
not judge him harshly  As Mrs Weston observed all young people
would have their little whims

There was one person among his new acquaintance in Surry not so
leniently disposed  In general he was judged throughout the parishes
of Donwell and Highbury with great candour liberal allowances
were made for the little excesses of such a handsome young man  
one who smiled so often and bowed so well but there was one spirit
among them not to be softened from its power of censure by bows
or smiles  Mr Knightley  The circumstance was told him at Hartfield
for the moment he was silent but Emma heard him almost immediately
afterwards say to himself over a newspaper he held in his hand
Hum just the trifling silly fellow I took him for  She had
half a mind to resent but an instant's observation convinced
her that it was really said only to relieve his own feelings
and not meant to provoke and therefore she let it pass

Although in one instance the bearers of not good tidings
Mr and Mrs Weston's visit this morning was in another respect
particularly opportune  Something occurred while they were
at Hartfield to make Emma want their advice and which was
still more lucky she wanted exactly the advice they gave

This was the occurrence  The Coles had been settled some years
in Highbury and were very good sort of people  friendly liberal
and unpretending but on the other hand they were of low origin
in trade and only moderately genteel  On their first coming into
the country they had lived in proportion to their income quietly
keeping little company and that little unexpensively but the last
year or two had brought them a considerable increase of means  
the house in town had yielded greater profits and fortune in general
had smiled on them  With their wealth their views increased
their want of a larger house their inclination for more company 
They added to their house to their number of servants
to their expenses of every sort and by this time were in fortune
and style of living second only to the family at Hartfield 
Their love of society and their new dining room prepared every body
for their keeping dinner company and a few parties chiefly among
the single men had already taken place  The regular and best
families Emma could hardly suppose they would presume to invite  
neither Donwell nor Hartfield nor Randalls  Nothing should
tempt her to go if they did and she regretted that her father's
known habits would be giving her refusal less meaning than she
could wish  The Coles were very respectable in their way but they
ought to be taught that it was not for them to arrange the terms
on which the superior families would visit them  This lesson
she very much feared they would receive only from herself
she had little hope of Mr Knightley none of Mr Weston

But she had made up her mind how to meet this presumption so many
weeks before it appeared that when the insult came at last
it found her very differently affected  Donwell and Randalls
had received their invitation and none had come for her father
and herself and Mrs Weston's accounting for it with I suppose
they will not take the liberty with you they know you do not
dine out was not quite sufficient  She felt that she should
like to have had the power of refusal and afterwards as the idea
of the party to be assembled there consisting precisely of those
whose society was dearest to her occurred again and again
she did not know that she might not have been tempted to accept 
Harriet was to be there in the evening and the Bateses  They had
been speaking of it as they walked about Highbury the day before
and Frank Churchill had most earnestly lamented her absence 
Might not the evening end in a dance had been a question of his 
The bare possibility of it acted as a farther irritation on her spirits
and her being left in solitary grandeur even supposing the omission
to be intended as a compliment was but poor comfort

It was the arrival of this very invitation while the Westons were
at Hartfield which made their presence so acceptable for though her
first remark on reading it was that of course it must be declined
she so very soon proceeded to ask them what they advised her to do
that their advice for her going was most prompt and successful

She owned that considering every thing she was not absolutely
without inclination for the party  The Coles expressed themselves
so properly  there was so much real attention in the manner of it  
so much consideration for her father  They would have solicited the
honour earlier but had been waiting the arrival of a folding screen
from London which they hoped might keep Mr Woodhouse from any draught
of air and therefore induce him the more readily to give them the
honour of his company  Upon the whole she was very persuadable
and it being briefly settled among themselves how it might be
done without neglecting his comfort  how certainly Mrs Goddard
if not Mrs Bates might be depended on for bearing him company  
Mr Woodhouse was to be talked into an acquiescence of his daughter's
going out to dinner on a day now near at hand and spending
the whole evening away from him  As for his going Emma did
not wish him to think it possible the hours would be too late
and the party too numerous  He was soon pretty well resigned

I am not fond of dinner visiting said he  I never was 
No more is Emma  Late hours do not agree with us  I am sorry
Mr and Mrs Cole should have done it  I think it would be
much better if they would come in one afternoon next summer
and take their tea with us  take us in their afternoon walk
which they might do as our hours are so reasonable and yet get home
without being out in the damp of the evening  The dews of a summer
evening are what I would not expose any body to  However as they
are so very desirous to have dear Emma dine with them and as you
will both be there and Mr Knightley too to take care of her
I cannot wish to prevent it provided the weather be what it ought
neither damp nor cold nor windy  Then turning to Mrs Weston
with a look of gentle reproach  Ah  Miss Taylor if you had
not married you would have staid at home with me

Well sir cried Mr Weston as I took Miss Taylor away
it is incumbent on me to supply her place if I can and I will
step to Mrs Goddard in a moment if you wish it

But the idea of any thing to be done in a moment was increasing
not lessening Mr Woodhouse's agitation  The ladies knew better
how to allay it  Mr Weston must be quiet and every thing
deliberately arranged

With this treatment Mr Woodhouse was soon composed enough
for talking as usual  He should be happy to see Mrs Goddard 
He had a great regard for Mrs Goddard and Emma should write a line
and invite her  James could take the note  But first of all
there must be an answer written to Mrs Cole

You will make my excuses my dear as civilly as possible  You will
say that I am quite an invalid and go no where and therefore must
decline their obliging invitation beginning with my compliments
of course  But you will do every thing right  I need not tell you
what is to be done  We must remember to let James know that the carriage
will be wanted on Tuesday  I shall have no fears for you with him 
We have never been there above once since the new approach was made
but still I have no doubt that James will take you very safely 
And when you get there you must tell him at what time you would
have him come for you again and you had better name an early hour 
You will not like staying late  You will get very tired when tea
is over

But you would not wish me to come away before I am tired papa

Oh no my love but you will soon be tired  There will be
a great many people talking at once  You will not like the noise

But my dear sir cried Mr Weston if Emma comes away early
it will be breaking up the party

And no great harm if it does said Mr Woodhouse  The sooner
every party breaks up the better

But you do not consider how it may appear to the Coles 
Emma's going away directly after tea might be giving offence 
They are good natured people and think little of their own claims
but still they must feel that any body's hurrying away is no
great compliment and Miss Woodhouse's doing it would be more thought
of than any other person's in the room  You would not wish to disappoint
and mortify the Coles I am sure sir friendly good sort of people
as ever lived and who have been your neighbours these ten years

No upon no account in the world Mr Weston I am much obliged
to you for reminding me  I should be extremely sorry to be giving
them any pain  I know what worthy people they are  Perry tells
me that Mr Cole never touches malt liquor  You would not think
it to look at him but he is bilious  Mr Cole is very bilious 
No I would not be the means of giving them any pain  My dear Emma
we must consider this  I am sure rather than run the risk of hurting
Mr and Mrs Cole you would stay a little longer than you might wish 
You will not regard being tired  You will be perfectly safe
you know among your friends

Oh yes papa  I have no fears at all for myself and I should have
no scruples of staying as late as Mrs Weston but on your account 
I am only afraid of your sitting up for me  I am not afraid
of your not being exceedingly comfortable with Mrs Goddard 
She loves piquet you know but when she is gone home I am afraid
you will be sitting up by yourself instead of going to bed at your
usual time  and the idea of that would entirely destroy my comfort 
You must promise me not to sit up

He did on the condition of some promises on her side  such as that
if she came home cold she would be sure to warm herself thoroughly
if hungry that she would take something to eat that her own maid
should sit up for her and that Serle and the butler should see
that every thing were safe in the house as usual



CHAPTER VIII


Frank Churchill came back again and if he kept his father's
dinner waiting it was not known at Hartfield for Mrs Weston
was too anxious for his being a favourite with Mr Woodhouse
to betray any imperfection which could be concealed

He came back had had his hair cut and laughed at himself with
a very good grace but without seeming really at all ashamed
of what he had done  He had no reason to wish his hair longer
to conceal any confusion of face no reason to wish the money unspent
to improve his spirits  He was quite as undaunted and as lively
as ever and after seeing him Emma thus moralised to herself  

I do not know whether it ought to be so but certainly silly things
do cease to be silly if they are done by sensible people in an
impudent way  Wickedness is always wickedness but folly is not
always folly  It depends upon the character of those who handle it 
Mr Knightley he is not a trifling silly young man  If he were
he would have done this differently  He would either have gloried
in the achievement or been ashamed of it  There would have been
either the ostentation of a coxcomb or the evasions of a mind too
weak to defend its own vanities  No I am perfectly sure that he
is not trifling or silly

With Tuesday came the agreeable prospect of seeing him again
and for a longer time than hitherto of judging of his general manners
and by inference of the meaning of his manners towards herself
of guessing how soon it might be necessary for her to throw coldness
into her air and of fancying what the observations of all those
might be who were now seeing them together for the first time

She meant to be very happy in spite of the scene being laid at
Mr Cole's and without being able to forget that among the failings
of Mr Elton even in the days of his favour none had disturbed
her more than his propensity to dine with Mr Cole

Her father's comfort was amply secured Mrs Bates as well as
Mrs Goddard being able to come and her last pleasing duty
before she left the house was to pay her respects to them as
they sat together after dinner and while her father was fondly
noticing the beauty of her dress to make the two ladies all
the amends in her power by helping them to large slices of cake
and full glasses of wine for whatever unwilling self denial his
care of their constitution might have obliged them to practise
during the meal  She had provided a plentiful dinner for them
she wished she could know that they had been allowed to eat it

She followed another carriage to Mr Cole's door and was pleased
to see that it was Mr Knightley's for Mr Knightley keeping
no horses having little spare money and a great deal of health
activity and independence was too apt in Emma's opinion to get
about as he could and not use his carriage so often as became
the owner of Donwell Abbey  She had an opportunity now of speaking
her approbation while warm from her heart for he stopped to hand her out

This is coming as you should do said she like a gentleman  
I am quite glad to see you

He thanked her observing How lucky that we should arrive at the same
moment for if we had met first in the drawing room I doubt whether
you would have discerned me to be more of a gentleman than usual  
You might not have distinguished how I came by my look or manner

Yes I should I am sure I should  There is always a look of
consciousness or bustle when people come in a way which they know
to be beneath them  You think you carry it off very well I dare say
but with you it is a sort of bravado an air of affected unconcern
I always observe it whenever I meet you under those circumstances 
Now you have nothing to try for  You are not afraid of being
supposed ashamed  You are not striving to look taller than any
body else  Now I shall really be very happy to walk into the same
room with you

Nonsensical girl was his reply but not at all in anger

Emma had as much reason to be satisfied with the rest of the party
as with Mr Knightley  She was received with a cordial respect
which could not but please and given all the consequence she could
wish for  When the Westons arrived the kindest looks of love
the strongest of admiration were for her from both husband and wife
the son approached her with a cheerful eagerness which marked
her as his peculiar object and at dinner she found him seated
by her  and as she firmly believed not without some dexterity
on his side

The party was rather large as it included one other family a proper
unobjectionable country family whom the Coles had the advantage of
naming among their acquaintance and the male part of Mr Cox's family
the lawyer of Highbury  The less worthy females were to come
in the evening with Miss Bates Miss Fairfax and Miss Smith
but already at dinner they were too numerous for any subject
of conversation to be general and while politics and Mr Elton
were talked over Emma could fairly surrender all her attention to
the pleasantness of her neighbour  The first remote sound to which
she felt herself obliged to attend was the name of Jane Fairfax 
Mrs Cole seemed to be relating something of her that was expected to be
very interesting  She listened and found it well worth listening to 
That very dear part of Emma her fancy received an amusing supply 
Mrs Cole was telling that she had been calling on Miss Bates
and as soon as she entered the room had been struck by the sight
of a pianoforte  a very elegant looking instrument  not a grand
but a large sized square pianoforte and the substance of the story
the end of all the dialogue which ensued of surprize and inquiry
and congratulations on her side and explanations on Miss Bates's was
that this pianoforte had arrived from Broadwood's the day before
to the great astonishment of both aunt and niece  entirely unexpected
that at first by Miss Bates's account Jane herself was quite at
a loss quite bewildered to think who could possibly have ordered it  
but now they were both perfectly satisfied that it could be from only
one quarter  of course it must be from Colonel Campbell

One can suppose nothing else added Mrs Cole and I was only
surprized that there could ever have been a doubt  But Jane
it seems had a letter from them very lately and not a word was said
about it  She knows their ways best but I should not consider their
silence as any reason for their not meaning to make the present 
They might chuse to surprize her

Mrs Cole had many to agree with her every body who spoke on the
subject was equally convinced that it must come from Colonel Campbell
and equally rejoiced that such a present had been made and there
were enough ready to speak to allow Emma to think her own way
and still listen to Mrs Cole

I declare I do not know when I have heard any thing that has given
me more satisfaction  It always has quite hurt me that Jane Fairfax
who plays so delightfully should not have an instrument 
It seemed quite a shame especially considering how many houses
there are where fine instruments are absolutely thrown away 
This is like giving ourselves a slap to be sure and it was
but yesterday I was telling Mr Cole I really was ashamed
to look at our new grand pianoforte in the drawing room while I
do not know one note from another and our little girls who are
but just beginning perhaps may never make any thing of it
and there is poor Jane Fairfax who is mistress of music has not
any thing of the nature of an instrument not even the pitifullest
old spinet in the world to amuse herself with  I was saying this
to Mr Cole but yesterday and he quite agreed with me only he
is so particularly fond of music that he could not help indulging
himself in the purchase hoping that some of our good neighbours might
be so obliging occasionally to put it to a better use than we can
and that really is the reason why the instrument was bought  
or else I am sure we ought to be ashamed of it  We are in great
hopes that Miss Woodhouse may be prevailed with to try it this evening

Miss Woodhouse made the proper acquiescence and finding that nothing
more was to be entrapped from any communication of Mrs Cole's
turned to Frank Churchill

Why do you smile said she

Nay why do you

Me  I suppose I smile for pleasure at Colonel Campbell's being
so rich and so liberal  It is a handsome present

Very

I rather wonder that it was never made before

Perhaps Miss Fairfax has never been staying here so long before

Or that he did not give her the use of their own instrument  
which must now be shut up in London untouched by any body

That is a grand pianoforte and he might think it too large
for Mrs Bates's house

You may say what you chuse  but your countenance testifies
that your thoughts on this subject are very much like mine

I do not know  I rather believe you are giving me more credit for
acuteness than I deserve  I smile because you smile and shall probably
suspect whatever I find you suspect but at present I do not see what
there is to question  If Colonel Campbell is not the person who can be

What do you say to Mrs Dixon

Mrs Dixon very true indeed  I had not thought of Mrs Dixon 
She must know as well as her father how acceptable an instrument
would be and perhaps the mode of it the mystery the surprize
is more like a young woman's scheme than an elderly man's It
is Mrs Dixon I dare say  I told you that your suspicions would
guide mine

If so you must extend your suspicions and comprehend Mr Dixon
in them

Mr Dixon  Very well  Yes I immediately perceive that it must
be the joint present of Mr and Mrs Dixon  We were speaking the
other day you know of his being so warm an admirer of her performance

Yes and what you told me on that head confirmed an idea which I
had entertained before  I do not mean to reflect upon the good
intentions of either Mr Dixon or Miss Fairfax but I cannot help
suspecting either that after making his proposals to her friend
he had the misfortune to fall in love with her or that he became
conscious of a little attachment on her side  One might guess
twenty things without guessing exactly the right but I am sure
there must be a particular cause for her chusing to come to Highbury
instead of going with the Campbells to Ireland  Here she must be
leading a life of privation and penance there it would have been
all enjoyment  As to the pretence of trying her native air I look
upon that as a mere excuse  In the summer it might have passed
but what can any body's native air do for them in the months
of January February and March  Good fires and carriages would
be much more to the purpose in most cases of delicate health and I
dare say in her's I do not require you to adopt all my suspicions
though you make so noble a profession of doing it but I honestly
tell you what they are

And upon my word they have an air of great probability 
Mr Dixon's preference of her music to her friend's I can answer
for being very decided

And then he saved her life  Did you ever hear of that  
A water party and by some accident she was falling overboard 
He caught her

He did  I was there  one of the party

Were you really  Well  But you observed nothing of course
for it seems to be a new idea to you  If I had been there I think
I should have made some discoveries

I dare say you would but I simple I saw nothing but the fact
that Miss Fairfax was nearly dashed from the vessel and that Mr Dixon
caught her  It was the work of a moment  And though the consequent
shock and alarm was very great and much more durable  indeed I
believe it was half an hour before any of us were comfortable again  
yet that was too general a sensation for any thing of peculiar
anxiety to be observable  I do not mean to say however that you
might not have made discoveries

The conversation was here interrupted  They were called on to share
in the awkwardness of a rather long interval between the courses
and obliged to be as formal and as orderly as the others but when
the table was again safely covered when every corner dish was placed
exactly right and occupation and ease were generally restored
Emma said

The arrival of this pianoforte is decisive with me  I wanted to know
a little more and this tells me quite enough  Depend upon it
we shall soon hear that it is a present from Mr and Mrs Dixon

And if the Dixons should absolutely deny all knowledge of it we
must conclude it to come from the Campbells

No I am sure it is not from the Campbells  Miss Fairfax knows it
is not from the Campbells or they would have been guessed at first 
She would not have been puzzled had she dared fix on them 
I may not have convinced you perhaps but I am perfectly convinced
myself that Mr Dixon is a principal in the business

Indeed you injure me if you suppose me unconvinced  Your reasonings
carry my judgment along with them entirely  At first while I
supposed you satisfied that Colonel Campbell was the giver I saw
it only as paternal kindness and thought it the most natural thing
in the world  But when you mentioned Mrs Dixon I felt how much more
probable that it should be the tribute of warm female friendship 
And now I can see it in no other light than as an offering of love

There was no occasion to press the matter farther  The conviction
seemed real he looked as if he felt it  She said no more
other subjects took their turn and the rest of the dinner passed away
the dessert succeeded the children came in and were talked
to and admired amid the usual rate of conversation a few clever
things said a few downright silly but by much the larger proportion
neither the one nor the other  nothing worse than everyday remarks
dull repetitions old news and heavy jokes

The ladies had not been long in the drawing room before the other ladies
in their different divisions arrived  Emma watched the entree of her
own particular little friend and if she could not exult in her dignity
and grace she could not only love the blooming sweetness and the
artless manner but could most heartily rejoice in that light cheerful
unsentimental disposition which allowed her so many alleviations
of pleasure in the midst of the pangs of disappointed affection 
There she sat  and who would have guessed how many tears she had
been lately shedding  To be in company nicely dressed herself
and seeing others nicely dressed to sit and smile and look pretty
and say nothing was enough for the happiness of the present hour 
Jane Fairfax did look and move superior but Emma suspected she
might have been glad to change feelings with Harriet very glad
to have purchased the mortification of having loved  yes of having
loved even Mr Elton in vain  by the surrender of all the dangerous
pleasure of knowing herself beloved by the husband of her friend

In so large a party it was not necessary that Emma should approach her 
She did not wish to speak of the pianoforte she felt too much
in the secret herself to think the appearance of curiosity
or interest fair and therefore purposely kept at a distance
but by the others the subject was almost immediately introduced
and she saw the blush of consciousness with which congratulations
were received the blush of guilt which accompanied the name of my
excellent friend Colonel Campbell

Mrs Weston kind hearted and musical was particularly interested
by the circumstance and Emma could not help being amused at her
perseverance in dwelling on the subject and having so much to ask
and to say as to tone touch and pedal totally unsuspicious
of that wish of saying as little about it as possible which she
plainly read in the fair heroine's countenance

They were soon joined by some of the gentlemen and the very first of the
early was Frank Churchill  In he walked the first and the handsomest
and after paying his compliments en passant to Miss Bates and
her niece made his way directly to the opposite side of the circle
where sat Miss Woodhouse and till he could find a seat by her
would not sit at all  Emma divined what every body present must
be thinking  She was his object and every body must perceive it 
She introduced him to her friend Miss Smith and at convenient
moments afterwards heard what each thought of the other  He had
never seen so lovely a face and was delighted with her naivete 
And she Only to be sure it was paying him too great a compliment
but she did think there were some looks a little like Mr Elton 
Emma restrained her indignation and only turned from her in silence

Smiles of intelligence passed between her and the gentleman on first
glancing towards Miss Fairfax but it was most prudent to avoid speech 
He told her that he had been impatient to leave the dining room  
hated sitting long  was always the first to move when he could  
that his father Mr Knightley Mr Cox and Mr Cole were left
very busy over parish business  that as long as he had staid
however it had been pleasant enough as he had found them in general
a set of gentlemanlike sensible men and spoke so handsomely of
Highbury altogether  thought it so abundant in agreeable families  
that Emma began to feel she had been used to despise the place
rather too much  She questioned him as to the society in Yorkshire  
the extent of the neighbourhood about Enscombe and the sort
and could make out from his answers that as far as Enscombe
was concerned there was very little going on that their visitings
were among a range of great families none very near and that even
when days were fixed and invitations accepted it was an even
chance that Mrs Churchill were not in health and spirits for going
that they made a point of visiting no fresh person and that
though he had his separate engagements it was not without difficulty
without considerable address at times that he could get away
or introduce an acquaintance for a night

She saw that Enscombe could not satisfy and that Highbury
taken at its best might reasonably please a young man who had more
retirement at home than he liked  His importance at Enscombe was
very evident  He did not boast but it naturally betrayed itself
that he had persuaded his aunt where his uncle could do nothing
and on her laughing and noticing it he owned that he believed excepting
one or two points he could with time persuade her to any thing 
One of those points on which his influence failed he then mentioned 
He had wanted very much to go abroad  had been very eager indeed
to be allowed to travel  but she would not hear of it  This had
happened the year before  Now he said he was beginning to have
no longer the same wish

The unpersuadable point which he did not mention Emma guessed
to be good behaviour to his father

I have made a most wretched discovery said he after a short pause  
I have been here a week to morrow  half my time  I never knew
days fly so fast  A week to morrow  And I have hardly begun to
enjoy myself  But just got acquainted with Mrs Weston and others  
I hate the recollection

Perhaps you may now begin to regret that you spent one whole day
out of so few in having your hair cut

No said he smiling that is no subject of regret at all 
I have no pleasure in seeing my friends unless I can believe myself
fit to be seen

The rest of the gentlemen being now in the room Emma found herself
obliged to turn from him for a few minutes and listen to Mr Cole 
When Mr Cole had moved away and her attention could be restored
as before she saw Frank Churchill looking intently across the room
at Miss Fairfax who was sitting exactly opposite

What is the matter said she

He started  Thank you for rousing me he replied  I believe
I have been very rude but really Miss Fairfax has done her hair
in so odd a way  so very odd a way  that I cannot keep my eyes
from her  I never saw any thing so outree  Those curls  This must
be a fancy of her own  I see nobody else looking like her  
I must go and ask her whether it is an Irish fashion  Shall I  
Yes I will  I declare I will  and you shall see how she takes it  
whether she colours

He was gone immediately and Emma soon saw him standing before Miss
Fairfax and talking to her but as to its effect on the young lady
as he had improvidently placed himself exactly between them exactly
in front of Miss Fairfax she could absolutely distinguish nothing

Before he could return to his chair it was taken by Mrs Weston

This is the luxury of a large party said she  one can get
near every body and say every thing  My dear Emma I am longing
to talk to you  I have been making discoveries and forming plans
just like yourself and I must tell them while the idea is fresh 
Do you know how Miss Bates and her niece came here

How  They were invited were not they

Oh yes  but how they were conveyed hither  the manner of their coming

They walked I conclude  How else could they come

Very true  Well a little while ago it occurred to me how very sad
it would be to have Jane Fairfax walking home again late at night
and cold as the nights are now  And as I looked at her though I
never saw her appear to more advantage it struck me that she
was heated and would therefore be particularly liable to take cold 
Poor girl  I could not bear the idea of it so as soon as Mr Weston
came into the room and I could get at him I spoke to him about
the carriage  You may guess how readily he came into my wishes
and having his approbation I made my way directly to Miss Bates
to assure her that the carriage would be at her service before it took
us home for I thought it would be making her comfortable at once 
Good soul she was as grateful as possible you may be sure 
Nobody was ever so fortunate as herself  but with many
many thanks  there was no occasion to trouble us for Mr Knightley's
carriage had brought and was to take them home again  I was
quite surprized  very glad I am sure but really quite surprized 
Such a very kind attention  and so thoughtful an attention  
the sort of thing that so few men would think of  And in short
from knowing his usual ways I am very much inclined to think
that it was for their accommodation the carriage was used at all 
I do suspect he would not have had a pair of horses for himself
and that it was only as an excuse for assisting them

Very likely said Emma  nothing more likely  I know no man
more likely than Mr Knightley to do the sort of thing  to do any
thing really good natured useful considerate or benevolent 
He is not a gallant man but he is a very humane one and this
considering Jane Fairfax's ill health would appear a case
of humanity to him  and for an act of unostentatious kindness
there is nobody whom I would fix on more than on Mr Knightley 
I know he had horses to day  for we arrived together and I laughed at
him about it but he said not a word that could betray

Well said Mrs Weston smiling you give him credit for
more simple disinterested benevolence in this instance than I do
for while Miss Bates was speaking a suspicion darted into my head
and I have never been able to get it out again  The more I think
of it the more probable it appears  In short I have made a match
between Mr Knightley and Jane Fairfax  See the consequence
of keeping you company  What do you say to it

Mr Knightley and Jane Fairfax exclaimed Emma  Dear Mrs Weston
how could you think of such a thing  Mr Knightley  Mr Knightley
must not marry  You would not have little Henry cut out from Donwell  
Oh no no Henry must have Donwell  I cannot at all consent to
Mr Knightley's marrying and I am sure it is not at all likely 
I am amazed that you should think of such a thing

My dear Emma I have told you what led me to think of it 
I do not want the match  I do not want to injure dear little Henry  
but the idea has been given me by circumstances and if Mr Knightley
really wished to marry you would not have him refrain on Henry's
account a boy of six years old who knows nothing of the matter

Yes I would  I could not bear to have Henry supplanted  
Mr Knightley marry  No I have never had such an idea and I
cannot adopt it now  And Jane Fairfax too of all women

Nay she has always been a first favourite with him as you
very well know

But the imprudence of such a match

I am not speaking of its prudence merely its probability

I see no probability in it unless you have any better foundation
than what you mention  His good nature his humanity as I tell you
would be quite enough to account for the horses  He has a great
regard for the Bateses you know independent of Jane Fairfax  
and is always glad to shew them attention  My dear Mrs Weston
do not take to match making  You do it very ill  Jane Fairfax mistress
of the Abbey  Oh no no  every feeling revolts  For his own sake
I would not have him do so mad a thing

Imprudent if you please  but not mad  Excepting inequality of fortune
and perhaps a little disparity of age I can see nothing unsuitable

But Mr Knightley does not want to marry  I am sure he has not the
least idea of it  Do not put it into his head  Why should he marry  
He is as happy as possible by himself with his farm and his sheep
and his library and all the parish to manage and he is extremely
fond of his brother's children  He has no occasion to marry
either to fill up his time or his heart

My dear Emma as long as he thinks so it is so but if he really
loves Jane Fairfax  

Nonsense  He does not care about Jane Fairfax  In the way
of love I am sure he does not  He would do any good to her
or her family but  

Well said Mrs Weston laughing perhaps the greatest good he
could do them would be to give Jane such a respectable home

If it would be good to her I am sure it would be evil to himself
a very shameful and degrading connexion  How would he bear to have
Miss Bates belonging to him  To have her haunting the Abbey
and thanking him all day long for his great kindness in marrying Jane  
So very kind and obliging  But he always had been such a very
kind neighbour  And then fly off through half a sentence
to her mother's old petticoat  Not that it was such a very old
petticoat either  for still it would last a great while  and indeed
she must thankfully say that their petticoats were all very strong

For shame Emma  Do not mimic her  You divert me against
my conscience  And upon my word I do not think Mr Knightley would
be much disturbed by Miss Bates  Little things do not irritate him 
She might talk on and if he wanted to say any thing himself he would
only talk louder and drown her voice  But the question is not
whether it would be a bad connexion for him but whether he wishes it
and I think he does  I have heard him speak and so must you
so very highly of Jane Fairfax  The interest he takes in her  
his anxiety about her health  his concern that she should have no
happier prospect  I have heard him express himself so warmly on
those points  Such an admirer of her performance on the pianoforte
and of her voice  I have heard him say that he could listen to her
for ever  Oh and I had almost forgotten one idea that occurred
to me  this pianoforte that has been sent here by somebody  
though we have all been so well satisfied to consider it a present
from the Campbells may it not be from Mr Knightley  I cannot
help suspecting him  I think he is just the person to do it
even without being in love

Then it can be no argument to prove that he is in love 
But I do not think it is at all a likely thing for him to do 
Mr Knightley does nothing mysteriously

I have heard him lamenting her having no instrument repeatedly
oftener than I should suppose such a circumstance would in the common
course of things occur to him

Very well and if he had intended to give her one he would have
told her so

There might be scruples of delicacy my dear Emma  I have a very
strong notion that it comes from him  I am sure he was particularly
silent when Mrs Cole told us of it at dinner

You take up an idea Mrs Weston and run away with it as you have
many a time reproached me with doing  I see no sign of attachment  
I believe nothing of the pianoforte  and proof only shall convince
me that Mr Knightley has any thought of marrying Jane Fairfax

They combated the point some time longer in the same way Emma rather
gaining ground over the mind of her friend for Mrs Weston was
the most used of the two to yield till a little bustle in the room
shewed them that tea was over and the instrument in preparation  
and at the same moment Mr Cole approaching to entreat Miss Woodhouse
would do them the honour of trying it  Frank Churchill of whom
in the eagerness of her conversation with Mrs Weston she had been
seeing nothing except that he had found a seat by Miss Fairfax
followed Mr Cole to add his very pressing entreaties and as
in every respect it suited Emma best to lead she gave a very
proper compliance

She knew the limitations of her own powers too well to attempt
more than she could perform with credit she wanted neither taste
nor spirit in the little things which are generally acceptable
and could accompany her own voice well  One accompaniment to her song
took her agreeably by surprize  a second slightly but correctly
taken by Frank Churchill  Her pardon was duly begged at the close
of the song and every thing usual followed  He was accused
of having a delightful voice and a perfect knowledge of music
which was properly denied and that he knew nothing of the matter
and had no voice at all roundly asserted  They sang together
once more and Emma would then resign her place to Miss Fairfax
whose performance both vocal and instrumental she never could
attempt to conceal from herself was infinitely superior to her own

With mixed feelings she seated herself at a little distance from the
numbers round the instrument to listen  Frank Churchill sang again 
They had sung together once or twice it appeared at Weymouth 
But the sight of Mr Knightley among the most attentive soon drew
away half Emma's mind and she fell into a train of thinking
on the subject of Mrs Weston's suspicions to which the sweet
sounds of the united voices gave only momentary interruptions 
Her objections to Mr Knightley's marrying did not in the least subside 
She could see nothing but evil in it  It would be a great
disappointment to Mr John Knightley consequently to Isabella 
A real injury to the children  a most mortifying change
and material loss to them all  a very great deduction from her
father's daily comfort  and as to herself she could not at all
endure the idea of Jane Fairfax at Donwell Abbey  A Mrs Knightley
for them all to give way to  No  Mr Knightley must never marry 
Little Henry must remain the heir of Donwell

Presently Mr Knightley looked back and came and sat down by her 
They talked at first only of the performance  His admiration
was certainly very warm yet she thought but for Mrs Weston
it would not have struck her  As a sort of touchstone however
she began to speak of his kindness in conveying the aunt and niece
and though his answer was in the spirit of cutting the matter short
she believed it to indicate only his disinclination to dwell on any
kindness of his own

I often feel concern said she that I dare not make our carriage
more useful on such occasions  It is not that I am without the wish
but you know how impossible my father would deem it that James
should put to for such a purpose

Quite out of the question quite out of the question he replied  
but you must often wish it I am sure  And he smiled with such
seeming pleasure at the conviction that she must proceed another step

This present from the Campbells said she  this pianoforte
is very kindly given

Yes he replied and without the smallest apparent embarrassment  
But they would have done better had they given her notice of it 
Surprizes are foolish things  The pleasure is not enhanced and the
inconvenience is often considerable  I should have expected better
judgment in Colonel Campbell

From that moment Emma could have taken her oath that Mr Knightley
had had no concern in giving the instrument  But whether he
were entirely free from peculiar attachment  whether there
were no actual preference  remained a little longer doubtful 
Towards the end of Jane's second song her voice grew thick

That will do said he when it was finished thinking aloud  
you have sung quite enough for one evening  now be quiet

Another song however was soon begged for  One more  they would
not fatigue Miss Fairfax on any account and would only ask for
one more  And Frank Churchill was heard to say I think you could
manage this without effort the first part is so very trifling 
The strength of the song falls on the second

Mr Knightley grew angry

That fellow said he indignantly thinks of nothing but shewing
off his own voice  This must not be  And touching Miss Bates
who at that moment passed near  Miss Bates are you mad to let
your niece sing herself hoarse in this manner  Go and interfere 
They have no mercy on her

Miss Bates in her real anxiety for Jane could hardly stay even
to be grateful before she stept forward and put an end to all
farther singing  Here ceased the concert part of the evening
for Miss Woodhouse and Miss Fairfax were the only young lady performers
but soon within five minutes the proposal of dancing  
originating nobody exactly knew where  was so effectually promoted
by Mr and Mrs Cole that every thing was rapidly clearing away
to give proper space  Mrs Weston capital in her country dances
was seated and beginning an irresistible waltz and Frank Churchill
coming up with most becoming gallantry to Emma had secured her hand
and led her up to the top

While waiting till the other young people could pair themselves off
Emma found time in spite of the compliments she was receiving on her
voice and her taste to look about and see what became of Mr Knightley 
This would be a trial  He was no dancer in general  If he were to be
very alert in engaging Jane Fairfax now it might augur something 
There was no immediate appearance  No he was talking to Mrs Cole  
he was looking on unconcerned Jane was asked by somebody else
and he was still talking to Mrs Cole

Emma had no longer an alarm for Henry his interest was yet safe
and she led off the dance with genuine spirit and enjoyment 
Not more than five couple could be mustered but the rarity and the
suddenness of it made it very delightful and she found herself well
matched in a partner  They were a couple worth looking at

Two dances unfortunately were all that could be allowed 
It was growing late and Miss Bates became anxious to get home
on her mother's account  After some attempts therefore to be
permitted to begin again they were obliged to thank Mrs Weston
look sorrowful and have done

Perhaps it is as well said Frank Churchill as he attended Emma
to her carriage  I must have asked Miss Fairfax and her languid
dancing would not have agreed with me after your's



CHAPTER IX


Emma did not repent her condescension in going to the Coles 
The visit afforded her many pleasant recollections the next day
and all that she might be supposed to have lost on the side
of dignified seclusion must be amply repaid in the splendour
of popularity  She must have delighted the Coles  worthy people
who deserved to be made happy  And left a name behind her that would
not soon die away

Perfect happiness even in memory is not common and there were
two points on which she was not quite easy  She doubted whether
she had not transgressed the duty of woman by woman in betraying
her suspicions of Jane Fairfax's feelings to Frank Churchill 
It was hardly right but it had been so strong an idea that it
would escape her and his submission to all that she told
was a compliment to her penetration which made it difficult
for her to be quite certain that she ought to have held her tongue

The other circumstance of regret related also to Jane Fairfax
and there she had no doubt  She did unfeignedly and unequivocally
regret the inferiority of her own playing and singing  She did
most heartily grieve over the idleness of her childhood  and sat
down and practised vigorously an hour and a half

She was then interrupted by Harriet's coming in and if Harriet's
praise could have satisfied her she might soon have been comforted

Oh if I could but play as well as you and Miss Fairfax

Don't class us together Harriet  My playing is no more like
her's than a lamp is like sunshine

Oh dear  I think you play the best of the two  I think you play
quite as well as she does  I am sure I had much rather hear you 
Every body last night said how well you played

Those who knew any thing about it must have felt the difference 
The truth is Harriet that my playing is just good enough to be praised
but Jane Fairfax's is much beyond it

Well I always shall think that you play quite as well as she does
or that if there is any difference nobody would ever find it out 
Mr Cole said how much taste you had and Mr Frank Churchill talked
a great deal about your taste and that he valued taste much more
than execution

Ah but Jane Fairfax has them both Harriet

Are you sure  I saw she had execution but I did not know she had
any taste  Nobody talked about it  And I hate Italian singing  
There is no understanding a word of it  Besides if she does play
so very well you know it is no more than she is obliged to do
because she will have to teach  The Coxes were wondering last night
whether she would get into any great family  How did you think the
Coxes looked

Just as they always do  very vulgar

They told me something said Harriet rather hesitatingly
but it is nothing of any consequence

Emma was obliged to ask what they had told her though fearful
of its producing Mr Elton

They told me   that Mr Martin dined with them last Saturday

Oh

He came to their father upon some business and he asked him
to stay to dinner

Oh

They talked a great deal about him especially Anne Cox 
I do not know what she meant but she asked me if I thought I
should go and stay there again next summer

She meant to be impertinently curious just as such an Anne Cox
should be

She said he was very agreeable the day he dined there  He sat
by her at dinner  Miss Nash thinks either of the Coxes would
be very glad to marry him

Very likely  I think they are without exception the most vulgar
girls in Highbury

Harriet had business at Ford's  Emma thought it most prudent to go
with her  Another accidental meeting with the Martins was possible
and in her present state would be dangerous

Harriet tempted by every thing and swayed by half a word was always
very long at a purchase and while she was still hanging over muslins
and changing her mind Emma went to the door for amusement  Much could
not be hoped from the traffic of even the busiest part of Highbury  
Mr Perry walking hastily by Mr William Cox letting himself in at
the office door Mr Cole's carriage horses returning from exercise
or a stray letter boy on an obstinate mule were the liveliest
objects she could presume to expect and when her eyes fell only on
the butcher with his tray a tidy old woman travelling homewards from
shop with her full basket two curs quarrelling over a dirty bone
and a string of dawdling children round the baker's little bow window
eyeing the gingerbread she knew she had no reason to complain
and was amused enough quite enough still to stand at the door 
A mind lively and at ease can do with seeing nothing and can see
nothing that does not answer

She looked down the Randalls road  The scene enlarged
two persons appeared Mrs Weston and her son in law they were
walking into Highbury  to Hartfield of course  They were stopping
however in the first place at Mrs Bates's whose house was
a little nearer Randalls than Ford's and had all but knocked
when Emma caught their eye  Immediately they crossed the road
and came forward to her and the agreeableness of yesterday's
engagement seemed to give fresh pleasure to the present meeting 
Mrs Weston informed her that she was going to call on the Bateses
in order to hear the new instrument

For my companion tells me said she that I absolutely promised
Miss Bates last night that I would come this morning  I was
not aware of it myself  I did not know that I had fixed a day
but as he says I did I am going now

And while Mrs Weston pays her visit I may be allowed I hope
said Frank Churchill to join your party and wait for her at Hartfield  
if you are going home

Mrs Weston was disappointed

I thought you meant to go with me  They would be very much pleased

Me  I should be quite in the way  But perhaps  I may be equally
in the way here  Miss Woodhouse looks as if she did not want me 
My aunt always sends me off when she is shopping  She says I fidget
her to death and Miss Woodhouse looks as if she could almost say
the same  What am I to do

I am here on no business of my own said Emma I am only waiting
for my friend  She will probably have soon done and then we
shall go home  But you had better go with Mrs Weston and hear
the instrument

Well  if you advise it  But with a smile if Colonel Campbell
should have employed a careless friend and if it should prove
to have an indifferent tone  what shall I say  I shall be no
support to Mrs Weston  She might do very well by herself 
A disagreeable truth would be palatable through her lips but I
am the wretchedest being in the world at a civil falsehood

I do not believe any such thing replied Emma  I am persuaded
that you can be as insincere as your neighbours when it is necessary
but there is no reason to suppose the instrument is indifferent 
Quite otherwise indeed if I understood Miss Fairfax's opinion
last night

Do come with me said Mrs Weston if it be not very disagreeable
to you  It need not detain us long  We will go to Hartfield afterwards 
We will follow them to Hartfield  I really wish you to call with me 
It will be felt so great an attention and I always thought you
meant it

He could say no more and with the hope of Hartfield to reward him
returned with Mrs Weston to Mrs Bates's door  Emma watched them in
and then joined Harriet at the interesting counter  trying with all
the force of her own mind to convince her that if she wanted plain
muslin it was of no use to look at figured and that a blue ribbon
be it ever so beautiful would still never match her yellow pattern 
At last it was all settled even to the destination of the parcel

Should I send it to Mrs Goddard's ma'am asked Mrs Ford  
Yes  no  yes to Mrs Goddard's Only my pattern gown is
at Hartfield  No you shall send it to Hartfield if you please 
But then Mrs Goddard will want to see it  And I could take the
pattern gown home any day  But I shall want the ribbon directly  
so it had better go to Hartfield  at least the ribbon  You could
make it into two parcels Mrs Ford could not you

It is not worth while Harriet to give Mrs Ford the trouble
of two parcels

No more it is

No trouble in the world ma'am said the obliging Mrs Ford

Oh but indeed I would much rather have it only in one 
Then if you please you shall send it all to Mrs Goddard's  
I do not know  No I think Miss Woodhouse I may just as well
have it sent to Hartfield and take it home with me at night 
What do you advise

That you do not give another half second to the subject 
To Hartfield if you please Mrs Ford

Aye that will be much best said Harriet quite satisfied
I should not at all like to have it sent to Mrs Goddard's

Voices approached the shop  or rather one voice and two ladies 
Mrs Weston and Miss Bates met them at the door

My dear Miss Woodhouse said the latter I am just run across to
entreat the favour of you to come and sit down with us a little while
and give us your opinion of our new instrument you and Miss Smith 
How do you do Miss Smith  Very well I thank you  And I begged
Mrs Weston to come with me that I might be sure of succeeding

I hope Mrs Bates and Miss Fairfax are  

Very well I am much obliged to you  My mother is delightfully well
and Jane caught no cold last night  How is Mr Woodhouse  I am so glad
to hear such a good account  Mrs Weston told me you were here  
Oh then said I I must run across I am sure Miss Woodhouse will
allow me just to run across and entreat her to come in my mother
will be so very happy to see her  and now we are such a nice party
she cannot refuse  Aye pray do said Mr Frank Churchill
Miss Woodhouse's opinion of the instrument will be worth having  
But said I I shall be more sure of succeeding if one of you will go
with me  Oh said he wait half a minute till I have finished
my job  For would you believe it Miss Woodhouse there he is
in the most obliging manner in the world fastening in the rivet of my
mother's spectacles  The rivet came out you know this morning  
So very obliging  For my mother had no use of her spectacles  
could not put them on  And by the bye every body ought to have
two pair of spectacles they should indeed  Jane said so 
I meant to take them over to John Saunders the first thing I did
but something or other hindered me all the morning first one thing
then another there is no saying what you know  At one time Patty came
to say she thought the kitchen chimney wanted sweeping  Oh said I
Patty do not come with your bad news to me  Here is the rivet
of your mistress's spectacles out  Then the baked apples came home
Mrs Wallis sent them by her boy they are extremely civil and
obliging to us the Wallises always  I have heard some people
say that Mrs Wallis can be uncivil and give a very rude answer
but we have never known any thing but the greatest attention
from them  And it cannot be for the value of our custom now
for what is our consumption of bread you know  Only three of us  
besides dear Jane at present  and she really eats nothing  makes such
a shocking breakfast you would be quite frightened if you saw it 
I dare not let my mother know how little she eats  so I say one
thing and then I say another and it passes off  But about the
middle of the day she gets hungry and there is nothing she likes
so well as these baked apples and they are extremely wholesome
for I took the opportunity the other day of asking Mr Perry
I happened to meet him in the street  Not that I had any doubt before  
I have so often heard Mr Woodhouse recommend a baked apple 
I believe it is the only way that Mr Woodhouse thinks the
fruit thoroughly wholesome  We have apple dumplings however
very often  Patty makes an excellent apple dumpling Well
Mrs Weston you have prevailed I hope and these ladies will
oblige us

Emma would be very happy to wait on Mrs Bates &c and they
did at last move out of the shop with no farther delay from Miss
Bates than

How do you do Mrs Ford  I beg your pardon  I did not see
you before  I hear you have a charming collection of new ribbons
from town  Jane came back delighted yesterday  Thank ye
the gloves do very well  only a little too large about the wrist
but Jane is taking them in

What was I talking of said she beginning again when they were
all in the street

Emma wondered on what of all the medley she would fix

I declare I cannot recollect what I was talking of  Oh my
mother's spectacles  So very obliging of Mr Frank Churchill 
Oh said he I do think I can fasten the rivet I like a job
of this kind excessively  Which you know shewed him to be so
very    Indeed I must say that much as I had heard of him
before and much as I had expected he very far exceeds any
thing    I do congratulate you Mrs Weston most warmly 
He seems every thing the fondest parent could    Oh said he
I can fasten the rivet  I like a job of that sort excessively 
I never shall forget his manner  And when I brought out the baked
apples from the closet and hoped our friends would be so very
obliging as to take some Oh said he directly there is nothing
in the way of fruit half so good and these are the finest looking
home baked apples I ever saw in my life  That you know was so
very    And I am sure by his manner it was no compliment 
Indeed they are very delightful apples and Mrs Wallis does them
full justice  only we do not have them baked more than twice
and Mr Woodhouse made us promise to have them done three times  
but Miss Woodhouse will be so good as not to mention it  The apples
themselves are the very finest sort for baking beyond a doubt
all from Donwell  some of Mr Knightley's most liberal supply 
He sends us a sack every year and certainly there never was such
a keeping apple anywhere as one of his trees  I believe there
is two of them  My mother says the orchard was always famous
in her younger days  But I was really quite shocked the other day  
for Mr Knightley called one morning and Jane was eating these apples
and we talked about them and said how much she enjoyed them
and he asked whether we were not got to the end of our stock 
I am sure you must be said he and I will send you
another supply for I have a great many more than I can ever use 
William Larkins let me keep a larger quantity than usual this year 
I will send you some more before they get good for nothing 
So I begged he would not  for really as to ours being gone I could
not absolutely say that we had a great many left  it was but half
a dozen indeed but they should be all kept for Jane and I could
not at all bear that he should be sending us more so liberal as he
had been already and Jane said the same  And when he was gone
she almost quarrelled with me  No I should not say quarrelled
for we never had a quarrel in our lives but she was quite distressed
that I had owned the apples were so nearly gone she wished I had
made him believe we had a great many left  Oh said I my dear
I did say as much as I could  However the very same evening
William Larkins came over with a large basket of apples the same
sort of apples a bushel at least and I was very much obliged
and went down and spoke to William Larkins and said every thing
as you may suppose  William Larkins is such an old acquaintance 
I am always glad to see him  But however I found afterwards
from Patty that William said it was all the apples of that sort
his master had he had brought them all  and now his master had not
one left to bake or boil  William did not seem to mind it himself
he was so pleased to think his master had sold so many for William
you know thinks more of his master's profit than any thing
but Mrs Hodges he said was quite displeased at their being
all sent away  She could not bear that her master should not be
able to have another apple tart this spring  He told Patty this
but bid her not mind it and be sure not to say any thing to us
about it for Mrs Hodges would be cross sometimes and as long as
so many sacks were sold it did not signify who ate the remainder 
And so Patty told me and I was excessively shocked indeed 
I would not have Mr Knightley know any thing about it for
the world  He would be so very    I wanted to keep it from
Jane's knowledge but unluckily I had mentioned it before I was
aware

Miss Bates had just done as Patty opened the door and her visitors
walked upstairs without having any regular narration to attend to
pursued only by the sounds of her desultory good will

Pray take care Mrs Weston there is a step at the turning 
Pray take care Miss Woodhouse ours is rather a dark staircase  
rather darker and narrower than one could wish  Miss Smith
pray take care  Miss Woodhouse I am quite concerned I am sure you
hit your foot  Miss Smith the step at the turning



CHAPTER X


The appearance of the little sitting room as they entered
was tranquillity itself Mrs Bates deprived of her usual employment
slumbering on one side of the fire Frank Churchill at a table
near her most deedily occupied about her spectacles and Jane Fairfax
standing with her back to them intent on her pianoforte

Busy as he was however the young man was yet able to shew a most
happy countenance on seeing Emma again

This is a pleasure said he in rather a low voice coming at
least ten minutes earlier than I had calculated  You find me
trying to be useful tell me if you think I shall succeed

What said Mrs Weston have not you finished it yet you would
not earn a very good livelihood as a working silversmith at this rate

I have not been working uninterruptedly he replied I have been
assisting Miss Fairfax in trying to make her instrument stand steadily
it was not quite firm an unevenness in the floor I believe 
You see we have been wedging one leg with paper  This was very kind
of you to be persuaded to come  I was almost afraid you would be
hurrying home

He contrived that she should be seated by him and was sufficiently
employed in looking out the best baked apple for her and trying
to make her help or advise him in his work till Jane Fairfax was
quite ready to sit down to the pianoforte again  That she was not
immediately ready Emma did suspect to arise from the state of her nerves
she had not yet possessed the instrument long enough to touch it
without emotion she must reason herself into the power of performance
and Emma could not but pity such feelings whatever their origin
and could not but resolve never to expose them to her neighbour again

At last Jane began and though the first bars were feebly given
the powers of the instrument were gradually done full justice to 
Mrs Weston had been delighted before and was delighted again
Emma joined her in all her praise and the pianoforte with every
proper discrimination was pronounced to be altogether of the
highest promise

Whoever Colonel Campbell might employ said Frank Churchill
with a smile at Emma the person has not chosen ill  I heard a good
deal of Colonel Campbell's taste at Weymouth and the softness of the
upper notes I am sure is exactly what he and all that party would
particularly prize  I dare say Miss Fairfax that he either gave
his friend very minute directions or wrote to Broadwood himself 
Do not you think so

Jane did not look round  She was not obliged to hear  Mrs Weston
had been speaking to her at the same moment

It is not fair said Emma in a whisper mine was a random guess 
Do not distress her

He shook his head with a smile and looked as if he had very little
doubt and very little mercy  Soon afterwards he began again

How much your friends in Ireland must be enjoying your pleasure
on this occasion Miss Fairfax  I dare say they often think of you
and wonder which will be the day the precise day of the instrument's
coming to hand  Do you imagine Colonel Campbell knows the business
to be going forward just at this time  Do you imagine it to be
the consequence of an immediate commission from him or that he may
have sent only a general direction an order indefinite as to time
to depend upon contingencies and conveniences

He paused  She could not but hear she could not avoid answering

Till I have a letter from Colonel Campbell said she in a voice
of forced calmness I can imagine nothing with any confidence 
It must be all conjecture

Conjecture  aye sometimes one conjectures right and sometimes
one conjectures wrong  I wish I could conjecture how soon I shall
make this rivet quite firm  What nonsense one talks Miss Woodhouse
when hard at work if one talks at all  your real workmen
I suppose hold their tongues but we gentlemen labourers if we get
hold of a word  Miss Fairfax said something about conjecturing 
There it is done  I have the pleasure madam to Mrs Bates
of restoring your spectacles healed for the present

He was very warmly thanked both by mother and daughter to escape
a little from the latter he went to the pianoforte and begged
Miss Fairfax who was still sitting at it to play something more

If you are very kind said he it will be one of the waltzes
we danced last night  let me live them over again  You did not
enjoy them as I did you appeared tired the whole time  I believe
you were glad we danced no longer but I would have given worlds  
all the worlds one ever has to give  for another half hour

She played

What felicity it is to hear a tune again which has made one happy  
If I mistake not that was danced at Weymouth

She looked up at him for a moment coloured deeply and played
something else  He took some music from a chair near the pianoforte
and turning to Emma said

Here is something quite new to me  Do you know it  Cramer  
And here are a new set of Irish melodies  That from such a quarter
one might expect  This was all sent with the instrument  Very thoughtful
of Colonel Campbell was not it  He knew Miss Fairfax could have
no music here  I honour that part of the attention particularly
it shews it to have been so thoroughly from the heart  Nothing hastily
done nothing incomplete  True affection only could have prompted it

Emma wished he would be less pointed yet could not help being amused
and when on glancing her eye towards Jane Fairfax she caught
the remains of a smile when she saw that with all the deep blush
of consciousness there had been a smile of secret delight
she had less scruple in the amusement and much less compunction
with respect to her  This amiable upright perfect Jane Fairfax
was apparently cherishing very reprehensible feelings

He brought all the music to her and they looked it over together  
Emma took the opportunity of whispering

You speak too plain  She must understand you

I hope she does  I would have her understand me  I am not
in the least ashamed of my meaning

But really I am half ashamed and wish I had never taken up
the idea

I am very glad you did and that you communicated it to me 
I have now a key to all her odd looks and ways  Leave shame to her 
If she does wrong she ought to feel it

She is not entirely without it I think

I do not see much sign of it  She is playing Robin Adair
at this moment  his favourite

Shortly afterwards Miss Bates passing near the window
descried Mr Knightley on horse back not far off

Mr Knightley I declare  I must speak to him if possible
just to thank him  I will not open the window here it would give
you all cold but I can go into my mother's room you know  I dare
say he will come in when he knows who is here  Quite delightful
to have you all meet so  Our little room so honoured

She was in the adjoining chamber while she still spoke and opening
the casement there immediately called Mr Knightley's attention
and every syllable of their conversation was as distinctly heard
by the others as if it had passed within the same apartment

How d ye do  how d'ye do  Very well I thank you  So obliged
to you for the carriage last night  We were just in time
my mother just ready for us  Pray come in do come in  You will
find some friends here

So began Miss Bates and Mr Knightley seemed determined to be heard
in his turn for most resolutely and commandingly did he say

How is your niece Miss Bates  I want to inquire after you all
but particularly your niece  How is Miss Fairfax  I hope she
caught no cold last night  How is she to day Tell me how Miss
Fairfax is

And Miss Bates was obliged to give a direct answer before he
would hear her in any thing else  The listeners were amused
and Mrs Weston gave Emma a look of particular meaning  But Emma
still shook her head in steady scepticism

So obliged to you  so very much obliged to you for the carriage
resumed Miss Bates

He cut her short with

I am going to Kingston  Can I do anything for you

Oh dear Kingston  are you  Mrs Cole was saying the other day
she wanted something from Kingston

Mrs Cole has servants to send  Can I do any thing for you

No I thank you  But do come in  Who do you think is here  
Miss Woodhouse and Miss Smith so kind as to call to hear the
new pianoforte  Do put up your horse at the Crown and come in

Well said he in a deliberating manner for five minutes perhaps

And here is Mrs Weston and Mr Frank Churchill too  Quite delightful
so many friends

No not now I thank you  I could not stay two minutes 
I must get on to Kingston as fast as I can

Oh do come in  They will be so very happy to see you

No no your room is full enough  I will call another day
and hear the pianoforte

Well I am so sorry  Oh  Mr Knightley what a delightful party
last night how extremely pleasant  Did you ever see such dancing  
Was not it delightful  Miss Woodhouse and Mr Frank Churchill
I never saw any thing equal to it

Oh very delightful indeed I can say nothing less for I suppose
Miss Woodhouse and Mr Frank Churchill are hearing every thing
that passes  And raising his voice still more I do not see why Miss
Fairfax should not be mentioned too  I think Miss Fairfax dances
very well and Mrs Weston is the very best country dance player
without exception in England  Now if your friends have any gratitude
they will say something pretty loud about you and me in return
but I cannot stay to hear it

Oh  Mr Knightley one moment more something of consequence  
so shocked  Jane and I are both so shocked about the apples

What is the matter now

To think of your sending us all your store apples  You said you had
a great many and now you have not one left  We really are so shocked 
Mrs Hodges may well be angry  William Larkins mentioned it here 
You should not have done it indeed you should not  Ah he is off 
He never can bear to be thanked  But I thought he would have staid now
and it would have been a pity not to have mentioned    Well
returning to the room I have not been able to succeed 
Mr Knightley cannot stop  He is going to Kingston  He asked me
if he could do any thing   

Yes said Jane we heard his kind offers we heard every thing

Oh yes my dear I dare say you might because you know the door
was open and the window was open and Mr Knightley spoke loud 
You must have heard every thing to be sure  Can I do any thing
for you at Kingston said he so I just mentioned    Oh 
Miss Woodhouse must you be going  You seem but just come  so very
obliging of you

Emma found it really time to be at home the visit had already
lasted long and on examining watches so much of the morning was
perceived to be gone that Mrs Weston and her companion taking
leave also could allow themselves only to walk with the two young
ladies to Hartfield gates before they set off for Randalls



CHAPTER XI


It may be possible to do without dancing entirely  Instances have
been known of young people passing many many months successively
without being at any ball of any description and no material injury
accrue either to body or mind  but when a beginning is made  
when the felicities of rapid motion have once been though slightly
felt  it must be a very heavy set that does not ask for more

Frank Churchill had danced once at Highbury and longed to dance again
and the last half hour of an evening which Mr Woodhouse was persuaded
to spend with his daughter at Randalls was passed by the two young
people in schemes on the subject  Frank's was the first idea
and his the greatest zeal in pursuing it for the lady was the best
judge of the difficulties and the most solicitous for accommodation
and appearance  But still she had inclination enough for shewing
people again how delightfully Mr Frank Churchill and Miss
Woodhouse danced  for doing that in which she need not blush to compare
herself with Jane Fairfax  and even for simple dancing itself
without any of the wicked aids of vanity  to assist him first
in pacing out the room they were in to see what it could be made
to hold  and then in taking the dimensions of the other parlour
in the hope of discovering in spite of all that Mr Weston could
say of their exactly equal size that it was a little the largest

His first proposition and request that the dance begun at Mr Cole's
should be finished there  that the same party should be collected
and the same musician engaged met with the readiest acquiescence 
Mr Weston entered into the idea with thorough enjoyment
and Mrs Weston most willingly undertook to play as long as they
could wish to dance and the interesting employment had followed
of reckoning up exactly who there would be and portioning out the
indispensable division of space to every couple

You and Miss Smith and Miss Fairfax will be three and the two
Miss Coxes five had been repeated many times over  And there
will be the two Gilberts young Cox my father and myself
besides Mr Knightley  Yes that will be quite enough for pleasure 
You and Miss Smith and Miss Fairfax will be three and the two Miss
Coxes five and for five couple there will be plenty of room

But soon it came to be on one side

But will there be good room for five couple  I really do not think
there will

On another

And after all five couple are not enough to make it worth
while to stand up  Five couple are nothing when one thinks
seriously about it  It will not do to invite five couple 
It can be allowable only as the thought of the moment

Somebody said that Miss Gilbert was expected at her brother's
and must be invited with the rest  Somebody else believed
Mrs Gilbert would have danced the other evening if she had
been asked  A word was put in for a second young Cox and at last
Mr Weston naming one family of cousins who must be included
and another of very old acquaintance who could not be left out
it became a certainty that the five couple would be at least ten
and a very interesting speculation in what possible manner they
could be disposed of

The doors of the two rooms were just opposite each other 
Might not they use both rooms and dance across the passage 
It seemed the best scheme and yet it was not so good but that
many of them wanted a better  Emma said it would be awkward
Mrs Weston was in distress about the supper and Mr Woodhouse
opposed it earnestly on the score of health  It made him so
very unhappy indeed that it could not be persevered in

Oh no said he it would be the extreme of imprudence 
I could not bear it for Emma  Emma is not strong  She would
catch a dreadful cold  So would poor little Harriet 
So you would all  Mrs Weston you would be quite laid up
do not let them talk of such a wild thing  Pray do not let them
talk of it  That young man speaking lower is very thoughtless 
Do not tell his father but that young man is not quite the thing 
He has been opening the doors very often this evening and keeping
them open very inconsiderately  He does not think of the draught 
I do not mean to set you against him but indeed he is not quite
the thing

Mrs Weston was sorry for such a charge  She knew the importance
of it and said every thing in her power to do it away  Every door
was now closed the passage plan given up and the first scheme
of dancing only in the room they were in resorted to again
and with such good will on Frank Churchill's part that the space
which a quarter of an hour before had been deemed barely sufficient
for five couple was now endeavoured to be made out quite enough
for ten

We were too magnificent said he  We allowed unnecessary room 
Ten couple may stand here very well

Emma demurred  It would be a crowd  a sad crowd and what could
be worse than dancing without space to turn in

Very true he gravely replied it was very bad  But still he
went on measuring and still he ended with

I think there will be very tolerable room for ten couple

No no said she you are quite unreasonable  It would be dreadful
to be standing so close  Nothing can be farther from pleasure
than to be dancing in a crowd  and a crowd in a little room

There is no denying it he replied  I agree with you exactly 
A crowd in a little room  Miss Woodhouse you have the art of giving
pictures in a few words  Exquisite quite exquisite  Still however
having proceeded so far one is unwilling to give the matter up 
It would be a disappointment to my father  and altogether  I do
not know that  I am rather of opinion that ten couple might stand
here very well

Emma perceived that the nature of his gallantry was a little
self willed and that he would rather oppose than lose the pleasure
of dancing with her but she took the compliment and forgave
the rest  Had she intended ever to marry him it might have been
worth while to pause and consider and try to understand the value
of his preference and the character of his temper but for
all the purposes of their acquaintance he was quite amiable enough

Before the middle of the next day he was at Hartfield and he entered
the room with such an agreeable smile as certified the continuance
of the scheme  It soon appeared that he came to announce an improvement

Well Miss Woodhouse he almost immediately began your inclination
for dancing has not been quite frightened away I hope by the
terrors of my father's little rooms  I bring a new proposal
on the subject  a thought of my father's which waits only your
approbation to be acted upon  May I hope for the honour of your
hand for the two first dances of this little projected ball
to be given not at Randalls but at the Crown Inn

The Crown

Yes if you and Mr Woodhouse see no objection and I trust you cannot
my father hopes his friends will be so kind as to visit him there 
Better accommodations he can promise them and not a less grateful
welcome than at Randalls  It is his own idea  Mrs Weston sees
no objection to it provided you are satisfied  This is what we
all feel  Oh you were perfectly right  Ten couple in either of
the Randalls rooms would have been insufferable  Dreadful  I felt
how right you were the whole time but was too anxious for securing
any thing to like to yield  Is not it a good exchange  You consent  
I hope you consent

It appears to me a plan that nobody can object to if Mr and
Mrs Weston do not  I think it admirable and as far as I can
answer for myself shall be most happy  It seems the only improvement
that could be  Papa do you not think it an excellent improvement

She was obliged to repeat and explain it before it was fully
comprehended and then being quite new farther representations
were necessary to make it acceptable

No he thought it very far from an improvement  a very bad plan  
much worse than the other  A room at an inn was always damp
and dangerous never properly aired or fit to be inhabited 
If they must dance they had better dance at Randalls  He had never
been in the room at the Crown in his life  did not know the people
who kept it by sight  Oh no  a very bad plan  They would catch
worse colds at the Crown than anywhere

I was going to observe sir said Frank Churchill
that one of the great recommendations of this change would
be the very little danger of any body's catching cold  
so much less danger at the Crown than at Randalls  Mr Perry
might have reason to regret the alteration but nobody else could

Sir said Mr Woodhouse rather warmly you are very much
mistaken if you suppose Mr Perry to be that sort of character 
Mr Perry is extremely concerned when any of us are ill  But I
do not understand how the room at the Crown can be safer for you
than your father's house

From the very circumstance of its being larger sir  We shall have
no occasion to open the windows at all  not once the whole evening
and it is that dreadful habit of opening the windows letting in cold
air upon heated bodies which as you well know sir does the mischief

Open the windows  but surely Mr Churchill nobody would think
of opening the windows at Randalls  Nobody could be so imprudent 
I never heard of such a thing  Dancing with open windows  I am sure
neither your father nor Mrs Weston poor Miss Taylor that was
would suffer it

Ah sir  but a thoughtless young person will sometimes step behind
a window curtain and throw up a sash without its being suspected 
I have often known it done myself

Have you indeed sir  Bless me  I never could have supposed it 
But I live out of the world and am often astonished at what I hear 
However this does make a difference and perhaps when we come
to talk it over  but these sort of things require a good deal
of consideration  One cannot resolve upon them in a hurry 
If Mr and Mrs Weston will be so obliging as to call here one morning
we may talk it over and see what can be done

But unfortunately sir my time is so limited  

Oh interrupted Emma there will be plenty of time for talking
every thing over  There is no hurry at all  If it can be contrived
to be at the Crown papa it will be very convenient for the horses 
They will be so near their own stable

So they will my dear  That is a great thing  Not that James
ever complains but it is right to spare our horses when we can 
If I could be sure of the rooms being thoroughly aired  but is
Mrs Stokes to be trusted  I doubt it  I do not know her
even by sight

I can answer for every thing of that nature sir because it will
be under Mrs Weston's care  Mrs Weston undertakes to direct
the whole

There papa  Now you must be satisfied  Our own dear Mrs Weston
who is carefulness itself  Do not you remember what Mr Perry said
so many years ago when I had the measles  If Miss Taylor undertakes
to wrap Miss Emma up you need not have any fears sir  How often
have I heard you speak of it as such a compliment to her

Aye very true  Mr Perry did say so  I shall never forget it 
Poor little Emma  You were very bad with the measles that is
you would have been very bad but for Perry's great attention 
He came four times a day for a week  He said from the first
it was a very good sort  which was our great comfort but the measles
are a dreadful complaint  I hope whenever poor Isabella's little ones
have the measles she will send for Perry

My father and Mrs Weston are at the Crown at this moment
said Frank Churchill examining the capabilities of the house 
I left them there and came on to Hartfield impatient for your opinion
and hoping you might be persuaded to join them and give your advice
on the spot  I was desired to say so from both  It would be the
greatest pleasure to them if you could allow me to attend you there 
They can do nothing satisfactorily without you

Emma was most happy to be called to such a council and her father
engaging to think it all over while she was gone the two young
people set off together without delay for the Crown  There were
Mr and Mrs Weston delighted to see her and receive her approbation
very busy and very happy in their different way she in some
little distress and he finding every thing perfect

Emma said she this paper is worse than I expected 
Look in places you see it is dreadfully dirty and the wainscot
is more yellow and forlorn than any thing I could have imagined

My dear you are too particular said her husband  What does
all that signify  You will see nothing of it by candlelight 
It will be as clean as Randalls by candlelight  We never see any
thing of it on our club nights

The ladies here probably exchanged looks which meant Men never
know when things are dirty or not and the gentlemen perhaps
thought each to himself Women will have their little nonsenses
and needless cares

One perplexity however arose which the gentlemen did not disdain 
It regarded a supper room  At the time of the ballroom's being built
suppers had not been in question and a small card room adjoining
was the only addition  What was to be done  This card room would
be wanted as a card room now or if cards were conveniently voted
unnecessary by their four selves still was it not too small for
any comfortable supper  Another room of much better size might be
secured for the purpose but it was at the other end of the house
and a long awkward passage must be gone through to get at it 
This made a difficulty  Mrs Weston was afraid of draughts
for the young people in that passage and neither Emma nor the
gentlemen could tolerate the prospect of being miserably crowded
at supper

Mrs Weston proposed having no regular supper merely sandwiches
&c set out in the little room but that was scouted as a
wretched suggestion  A private dance without sitting down to supper
was pronounced an infamous fraud upon the rights of men and women
and Mrs Weston must not speak of it again  She then took another
line of expediency and looking into the doubtful room observed

I do not think it is so very small  We shall not be many
you know

And Mr Weston at the same time walking briskly with long steps
through the passage was calling out

You talk a great deal of the length of this passage my dear 
It is a mere nothing after all and not the least draught from
the stairs

I wish said Mrs Weston one could know which arrangement our
guests in general would like best  To do what would be most generally
pleasing must be our object  if one could but tell what that would be

Yes very true cried Frank very true  You want your neighbours
opinions  I do not wonder at you  If one could ascertain what the
chief of them  the Coles for instance  They are not far off 
Shall I call upon them  Or Miss Bates  She is still nearer  
And I do not know whether Miss Bates is not as likely to understand
the inclinations of the rest of the people as any body  I think
we do want a larger council  Suppose I go and invite Miss Bates
to join us

Well  if you please said Mrs Weston rather hesitating if you
think she will be of any use

You will get nothing to the purpose from Miss Bates said Emma 
She will be all delight and gratitude but she will tell you nothing 
She will not even listen to your questions  I see no advantage in
consulting Miss Bates

But she is so amusing so extremely amusing  I am very fond
of hearing Miss Bates talk  And I need not bring the whole family
you know

Here Mr Weston joined them and on hearing what was proposed
gave it his decided approbation

Aye do Frank  Go and fetch Miss Bates and let us end the matter
at once  She will enjoy the scheme I am sure and I do not know
a properer person for shewing us how to do away difficulties 
Fetch Miss Bates  We are growing a little too nice  She is
a standing lesson of how to be happy  But fetch them both 
Invite them both

Both sir  Can the old lady   

The old lady  No the young lady to be sure  I shall think you
a great blockhead Frank if you bring the aunt without the niece

Oh  I beg your pardon sir  I did not immediately recollect 
Undoubtedly if you wish it I will endeavour to persuade them both 
And away he ran

Long before he reappeared attending the short neat brisk moving aunt
and her elegant niece  Mrs Weston like a sweet tempered
woman and a good wife had examined the passage again
and found the evils of it much less than she had supposed before  
indeed very trifling and here ended the difficulties of decision 
All the rest in speculation at least was perfectly smooth 
All the minor arrangements of table and chair lights and music
tea and supper made themselves or were left as mere trifles
to be settled at any time between Mrs Weston and Mrs Stokes  
Every body invited was certainly to come Frank had already written
to Enscombe to propose staying a few days beyond his fortnight
which could not possibly be refused  And a delightful dance it was
to be

Most cordially when Miss Bates arrived did she agree that it must 
As a counsellor she was not wanted but as an approver a much
safer character she was truly welcome  Her approbation at once
general and minute warm and incessant could not but please
and for another half hour they were all walking to and fro
between the different rooms some suggesting some attending
and all in happy enjoyment of the future  The party did not break
up without Emma's being positively secured for the two first dances
by the hero of the evening nor without her overhearing Mr Weston
whisper to his wife He has asked her my dear  That's right 
I knew he would



CHAPTER XII


One thing only was wanting to make the prospect of the ball
completely satisfactory to Emma  its being fixed for a day within
the granted term of Frank Churchill's stay in Surry for in spite
of Mr Weston's confidence she could not think it so very impossible
that the Churchills might not allow their nephew to remain
a day beyond his fortnight  But this was not judged feasible 
The preparations must take their time nothing could be properly
ready till the third week were entered on and for a few days they
must be planning proceeding and hoping in uncertainty  at the risk  
in her opinion the great risk of its being all in vain

Enscombe however was gracious gracious in fact if not in word 
His wish of staying longer evidently did not please but it was
not opposed  All was safe and prosperous and as the removal of one
solicitude generally makes way for another Emma being now certain
of her ball began to adopt as the next vexation Mr Knightley's
provoking indifference about it  Either because he did not
dance himself or because the plan had been formed without his
being consulted he seemed resolved that it should not interest him
determined against its exciting any present curiosity or affording
him any future amusement  To her voluntary communications Emma
could get no more approving reply than

Very well  If the Westons think it worth while to be at all this
trouble for a few hours of noisy entertainment I have nothing
to say against it but that they shall not chuse pleasures for me  
Oh yes I must be there I could not refuse and I will keep
as much awake as I can but I would rather be at home looking over
William Larkins's week's account much rather I confess  
Pleasure in seeing dancing  not I indeed  I never look at it  
I do not know who does  Fine dancing I believe like virtue
must be its own reward  Those who are standing by are usually
thinking of something very different

This Emma felt was aimed at her and it made her quite angry 
It was not in compliment to Jane Fairfax however that he was
so indifferent or so indignant he was not guided by her feelings
in reprobating the ball for she enjoyed the thought of it
to an extraordinary degree  It made her animated  open hearted  
she voluntarily said  

Oh  Miss Woodhouse I hope nothing may happen to prevent the ball 
What a disappointment it would be  I do look forward to it I own
with very great pleasure

It was not to oblige Jane Fairfax therefore that he would have
preferred the society of William Larkins  No  she was more and more
convinced that Mrs Weston was quite mistaken in that surmise 
There was a great deal of friendly and of compassionate attachment
on his side  but no love

Alas there was soon no leisure for quarrelling with Mr Knightley 
Two days of joyful security were immediately followed by the
over throw of every thing  A letter arrived from Mr Churchill
to urge his nephew's instant return  Mrs Churchill was unwell  
far too unwell to do without him she had been in a very suffering
state so said her husband when writing to her nephew two days before
though from her usual unwillingness to give pain and constant
habit of never thinking of herself she had not mentioned it
but now she was too ill to trifle and must entreat him to set off
for Enscombe without delay

The substance of this letter was forwarded to Emma in a note
from Mrs Weston instantly  As to his going it was inevitable 
He must be gone within a few hours though without feeling any real
alarm for his aunt to lessen his repugnance  He knew her illnesses
they never occurred but for her own convenience

Mrs Weston added that he could only allow himself time to
hurry to Highbury after breakfast and take leave of the few
friends there whom he could suppose to feel any interest in him
and that he might be expected at Hartfield very soon

This wretched note was the finale of Emma's breakfast  When once
it had been read there was no doing any thing but lament
and exclaim  The loss of the ball  the loss of the young man  
and all that the young man might be feeling  It was too wretched  
Such a delightful evening as it would have been  Every body so happy
and she and her partner the happiest  I said it would be so
was the only consolation

Her father's feelings were quite distinct  He thought principally
of Mrs Churchill's illness and wanted to know how she was treated
and as for the ball it was shocking to have dear Emma disappointed
but they would all be safer at home

Emma was ready for her visitor some time before he appeared
but if this reflected at all upon his impatience his sorrowful
look and total want of spirits when he did come might redeem him 
He felt the going away almost too much to speak of it  His dejection
was most evident  He sat really lost in thought for the first
few minutes and when rousing himself it was only to say

Of all horrid things leave taking is the worst

But you will come again said Emma  This will not be your only
visit to Randalls

Ah  shaking his head  the uncertainty of when I may be able
to return  I shall try for it with a zeal  It will be the object
of all my thoughts and cares  and if my uncle and aunt go to town
this spring  but I am afraid  they did not stir last spring  
I am afraid it is a custom gone for ever

Our poor ball must be quite given up

Ah that ball  why did we wait for any thing  why not seize the
pleasure at once  How often is happiness destroyed by preparation
foolish preparation  You told us it would be so  Oh  Miss Woodhouse
why are you always so right

Indeed I am very sorry to be right in this instance  I would
much rather have been merry than wise

If I can come again we are still to have our ball  My father
depends on it  Do not forget your engagement

Emma looked graciously

Such a fortnight as it has been he continued every day more
precious and more delightful than the day before  every day making
me less fit to bear any other place  Happy those who can remain
at Highbury

As you do us such ample justice now said Emma laughing I will
venture to ask whether you did not come a little doubtfully at first 
Do not we rather surpass your expectations  I am sure we do 
I am sure you did not much expect to like us  You would not have been
so long in coming if you had had a pleasant idea of Highbury

He laughed rather consciously and though denying the sentiment
Emma was convinced that it had been so

And you must be off this very morning

Yes my father is to join me here  we shall walk back together
and I must be off immediately  I am almost afraid that every moment
will bring him

Not five minutes to spare even for your friends Miss Fairfax and
Miss Bates  How unlucky  Miss Bates's powerful argumentative mind
might have strengthened yours

Yes  I have called there passing the door I thought it better 
It was a right thing to do  I went in for three minutes and was
detained by Miss Bates's being absent  She was out and I felt it
impossible not to wait till she came in  She is a woman that one may
that one must laugh at but that one would not wish to slight 
It was better to pay my visit then  

He hesitated got up walked to a window

In short said he perhaps Miss Woodhouse  I think you can
hardly be quite without suspicion  

He looked at her as if wanting to read her thoughts  She hardly
knew what to say  It seemed like the forerunner of something
absolutely serious which she did not wish  Forcing herself
to speak therefore in the hope of putting it by she calmly said

You are quite in the right it was most natural to pay your visit then  

He was silent  She believed he was looking at her probably reflecting
on what she had said and trying to understand the manner 
She heard him sigh  It was natural for him to feel that he had
cause to sigh  He could not believe her to be encouraging him 
A few awkward moments passed and he sat down again and in a more
determined manner said

It was something to feel that all the rest of my time might be
given to Hartfield  My regard for Hartfield is most warm  

He stopt again rose again and seemed quite embarrassed  
He was more in love with her than Emma had supposed and who can say
how it might have ended if his father had not made his appearance 
Mr Woodhouse soon followed and the necessity of exertion made
him composed

A very few minutes more however completed the present trial 
Mr Weston always alert when business was to be done and as
incapable of procrastinating any evil that was inevitable
as of foreseeing any that was doubtful said It was time to go
and the young man though he might and did sigh could not but agree
to take leave

I shall hear about you all said he that is my chief consolation 
I shall hear of every thing that is going on among you  I have
engaged Mrs Weston to correspond with me  She has been so kind as
to promise it  Oh the blessing of a female correspondent when one
is really interested in the absent  she will tell me every thing 
In her letters I shall be at dear Highbury again

A very friendly shake of the hand a very earnest Good bye
closed the speech and the door had soon shut out Frank Churchill 
Short had been the notice  short their meeting he was gone and Emma
felt so sorry to part and foresaw so great a loss to their little
society from his absence as to begin to be afraid of being too sorry
and feeling it too much

It was a sad change  They had been meeting almost every day
since his arrival  Certainly his being at Randalls had given
great spirit to the last two weeks  indescribable spirit the idea
the expectation of seeing him which every morning had brought
the assurance of his attentions his liveliness his manners 
It had been a very happy fortnight and forlorn must be the sinking
from it into the common course of Hartfield days  To complete every
other recommendation he had almost told her that he loved her 
What strength or what constancy of affection he might be subject to
was another point but at present she could not doubt his having
a decidedly warm admiration a conscious preference of herself
and this persuasion joined to all the rest made her think that
she must be a little in love with him in spite of every previous
determination against it

I certainly must said she  This sensation of listlessness
weariness stupidity this disinclination to sit down and employ myself
this feeling of every thing's being dull and insipid about the house  
I must be in love I should be the oddest creature in the world if I
were not  for a few weeks at least  Well evil to some is always
good to others  I shall have many fellow mourners for the ball
if not for Frank Churchill but Mr Knightley will be happy 
He may spend the evening with his dear William Larkins now if he likes

Mr Knightley however shewed no triumphant happiness  He could
not say that he was sorry on his own account his very cheerful look
would have contradicted him if he had but he said and very steadily
that he was sorry for the disappointment of the others and with
considerable kindness added

You Emma who have so few opportunities of dancing you are really
out of luck you are very much out of luck

It was some days before she saw Jane Fairfax to judge of her
honest regret in this woeful change but when they did meet
her composure was odious  She had been particularly unwell however
suffering from headache to a degree which made her aunt declare
that had the ball taken place she did not think Jane could have
attended it and it was charity to impute some of her unbecoming
indifference to the languor of ill health



CHAPTER XIII


Emma continued to entertain no doubt of her being in love  Her ideas
only varied as to the how much  At first she thought it was a good deal
and afterwards but little  She had great pleasure in hearing Frank
Churchill talked of and for his sake greater pleasure than ever
in seeing Mr and Mrs Weston she was very often thinking of him
and quite impatient for a letter that she might know how he was
how were his spirits how was his aunt and what was the chance
of his coming to Randalls again this spring  But on the other hand
she could not admit herself to be unhappy nor after the
first morning to be less disposed for employment than usual
she was still busy and cheerful and pleasing as he was she could
yet imagine him to have faults and farther though thinking of him
so much and as she sat drawing or working forming a thousand
amusing schemes for the progress and close of their attachment
fancying interesting dialogues and inventing elegant letters
the conclusion of every imaginary declaration on his side was that she
refused him  Their affection was always to subside into friendship 
Every thing tender and charming was to mark their parting
but still they were to part  When she became sensible of this
it struck her that she could not be very much in love for in spite
of her previous and fixed determination never to quit her father
never to marry a strong attachment certainly must produce more
of a struggle than she could foresee in her own feelings

I do not find myself making any use of the word sacrifice said she  
In not one of all my clever replies my delicate negatives
is there any allusion to making a sacrifice  I do suspect that he
is not really necessary to my happiness  So much the better 
I certainly will not persuade myself to feel more than I do  I am
quite enough in love  I should be sorry to be more

Upon the whole she was equally contented with her view of his feelings

He is undoubtedly very much in love  every thing denotes it  very much
in love indeed  and when he comes again if his affection continue
I must be on my guard not to encourage it  It would be most
inexcusable to do otherwise as my own mind is quite made up 
Not that I imagine he can think I have been encouraging him hitherto 
No if he had believed me at all to share his feelings he would
not have been so wretched  Could he have thought himself encouraged
his looks and language at parting would have been different  
Still however I must be on my guard  This is in the supposition
of his attachment continuing what it now is but I do not know that I
expect it will I do not look upon him to be quite the sort of man  
I do not altogether build upon his steadiness or constancy  
His feelings are warm but I can imagine them rather changeable  
Every consideration of the subject in short makes me thankful
that my happiness is not more deeply involved  I shall do very well
again after a little while  and then it will be a good thing over
for they say every body is in love once in their lives and I shall
have been let off easily

When his letter to Mrs Weston arrived Emma had the perusal of it
and she read it with a degree of pleasure and admiration which made
her at first shake her head over her own sensations and think she
had undervalued their strength  It was a long well written letter
giving the particulars of his journey and of his feelings
expressing all the affection gratitude and respect which was
natural and honourable and describing every thing exterior and local
that could be supposed attractive with spirit and precision 
No suspicious flourishes now of apology or concern it was the
language of real feeling towards Mrs Weston and the transition
from Highbury to Enscombe the contrast between the places in some
of the first blessings of social life was just enough touched on
to shew how keenly it was felt and how much more might have been
said but for the restraints of propriety  The charm of her own
name was not wanting  Miss Woodhouse appeared more than once
and never without a something of pleasing connexion either a
compliment to her taste or a remembrance of what she had said
and in the very last time of its meeting her eye unadorned as it
was by any such broad wreath of gallantry she yet could discern
the effect of her influence and acknowledge the greatest compliment
perhaps of all conveyed  Compressed into the very lowest vacant
corner were these words  I had not a spare moment on Tuesday
as you know for Miss Woodhouse's beautiful little friend  Pray make
my excuses and adieus to her  This Emma could not doubt was all
for herself  Harriet was remembered only from being her friend 
His information and prospects as to Enscombe were neither worse nor
better than had been anticipated Mrs Churchill was recovering
and he dared not yet even in his own imagination fix a time for
coming to Randalls again

Gratifying however and stimulative as was the letter in the
material part its sentiments she yet found when it was folded up
and returned to Mrs Weston that it had not added any lasting warmth
that she could still do without the writer and that he must learn
to do without her  Her intentions were unchanged  Her resolution
of refusal only grew more interesting by the addition of a scheme for
his subsequent consolation and happiness  His recollection of Harriet
and the words which clothed it the beautiful little friend
suggested to her the idea of Harriet's succeeding her in his affections 
Was it impossible  No  Harriet undoubtedly was greatly his
inferior in understanding but he had been very much struck with
the loveliness of her face and the warm simplicity of her manner
and all the probabilities of circumstance and connexion were in
her favour  For Harriet it would be advantageous and delightful indeed

I must not dwell upon it said she  I must not think of it 
I know the danger of indulging such speculations  But stranger
things have happened and when we cease to care for each other
as we do now it will be the means of confirming us in that sort
of true disinterested friendship which I can already look forward
to with pleasure

It was well to have a comfort in store on Harriet's behalf
though it might be wise to let the fancy touch it seldom for evil
in that quarter was at hand  As Frank Churchill's arrival had
succeeded Mr Elton's engagement in the conversation of Highbury
as the latest interest had entirely borne down the first so now
upon Frank Churchill's disappearance Mr Elton's concerns were
assuming the most irresistible form  His wedding day was named 
He would soon be among them again Mr Elton and his bride 
There was hardly time to talk over the first letter from Enscombe
before Mr Elton and his bride was in every body's mouth
and Frank Churchill was forgotten  Emma grew sick at the sound 
She had had three weeks of happy exemption from Mr Elton
and Harriet's mind she had been willing to hope had been lately
gaining strength  With Mr Weston's ball in view at least
there had been a great deal of insensibility to other things
but it was now too evident that she had not attained such a state
of composure as could stand against the actual approach  new carriage
bell ringing and all

Poor Harriet was in a flutter of spirits which required all the
reasonings and soothings and attentions of every kind that Emma
could give  Emma felt that she could not do too much for her
that Harriet had a right to all her ingenuity and all her patience
but it was heavy work to be for ever convincing without producing
any effect for ever agreed to without being able to make their opinions
the same  Harriet listened submissively and said it was very true  
it was just as Miss Woodhouse described  it was not worth while to
think about them  and she would not think about them any longer
but no change of subject could avail and the next half hour
saw her as anxious and restless about the Eltons as before 
At last Emma attacked her on another ground

Your allowing yourself to be so occupied and so unhappy about
Mr Elton's marrying Harriet is the strongest reproach you can
make me  You could not give me a greater reproof for the mistake I
fell into  It was all my doing I know  I have not forgotten it
I assure you  Deceived myself I did very miserably deceive you  
and it will be a painful reflection to me for ever  Do not imagine
me in danger of forgetting it

Harriet felt this too much to utter more than a few words
of eager exclamation  Emma continued

I have not said exert yourself Harriet for my sake think less
talk less of Mr Elton for my sake because for your own sake rather
I would wish it to be done for the sake of what is more important
than my comfort a habit of self command in you a consideration
of what is your duty an attention to propriety an endeavour
to avoid the suspicions of others to save your health and credit
and restore your tranquillity  These are the motives which I
have been pressing on you  They are very important  and sorry
I am that you cannot feel them sufficiently to act upon them 
My being saved from pain is a very secondary consideration  I want
you to save yourself from greater pain  Perhaps I may sometimes
have felt that Harriet would not forget what was due  or rather
what would be kind by me

This appeal to her affections did more than all the rest 
The idea of wanting gratitude and consideration for Miss Woodhouse
whom she really loved extremely made her wretched for a while
and when the violence of grief was comforted away still remained
powerful enough to prompt to what was right and support her in it
very tolerably

You who have been the best friend I ever had in my life  
Want gratitude to you  Nobody is equal to you  I care for nobody
as I do for you  Oh  Miss Woodhouse how ungrateful I have been

Such expressions assisted as they were by every thing that look
and manner could do made Emma feel that she had never loved Harriet
so well nor valued her affection so highly before

There is no charm equal to tenderness of heart said she
afterwards to herself  There is nothing to be compared to it 
Warmth and tenderness of heart with an affectionate open manner
will beat all the clearness of head in the world for attraction
I am sure it will  It is tenderness of heart which makes my dear
father so generally beloved  which gives Isabella all her popularity  
I have it not  but I know how to prize and respect it  Harriet is
my superior in all the charm and all the felicity it gives 
Dear Harriet  I would not change you for the clearest headed
longest sighted best judging female breathing  Oh the coldness
of a Jane Fairfax  Harriet is worth a hundred such  And for a wife  
a sensible man's wife  it is invaluable  I mention no names
but happy the man who changes Emma for Harriet



CHAPTER XIV


Mrs Elton was first seen at church  but though devotion might
be interrupted curiosity could not be satisfied by a bride in a pew
and it must be left for the visits in form which were then to be paid
to settle whether she were very pretty indeed or only rather pretty
or not pretty at all

Emma had feelings less of curiosity than of pride or propriety
to make her resolve on not being the last to pay her respects
and she made a point of Harriet's going with her that the worst of
the business might be gone through as soon as possible

She could not enter the house again could not be in the same room
to which she had with such vain artifice retreated three months ago
to lace up her boot without recollecting  A thousand vexatious
thoughts would recur  Compliments charades and horrible blunders
and it was not to be supposed that poor Harriet should not be
recollecting too but she behaved very well and was only rather
pale and silent  The visit was of course short and there was so
much embarrassment and occupation of mind to shorten it that Emma
would not allow herself entirely to form an opinion of the lady
and on no account to give one beyond the nothing meaning terms
of being elegantly dressed and very pleasing

She did not really like her  She would not be in a hurry to find fault
but she suspected that there was no elegance  ease but not elegance  
She was almost sure that for a young woman a stranger a bride
there was too much ease  Her person was rather good her face
not unpretty but neither feature nor air nor voice nor manner
were elegant  Emma thought at least it would turn out so

As for Mr Elton his manners did not appear  but no she would
not permit a hasty or a witty word from herself about his manners 
It was an awkward ceremony at any time to be receiving wedding visits
and a man had need be all grace to acquit himself well through it 
The woman was better off she might have the assistance of fine clothes
and the privilege of bashfulness but the man had only his own
good sense to depend on and when she considered how peculiarly
unlucky poor Mr Elton was in being in the same room at once with
the woman he had just married the woman he had wanted to marry
and the woman whom he had been expected to marry she must allow him
to have the right to look as little wise and to be as much affectedly
and as little really easy as could be

Well Miss Woodhouse said Harriet when they had quitted
the house and after waiting in vain for her friend to begin
Well Miss Woodhouse with a gentle sigh what do you think of her  
Is not she very charming

There was a little hesitation in Emma's answer

Oh yes  very  a very pleasing young woman

I think her beautiful quite beautiful

Very nicely dressed indeed a remarkably elegant gown

I am not at all surprized that he should have fallen in love

Oh no  there is nothing to surprize one at all  A pretty fortune
and she came in his way

I dare say returned Harriet sighing again I dare say she
was very much attached to him

Perhaps she might but it is not every man's fate to marry the
woman who loves him best  Miss Hawkins perhaps wanted a home
and thought this the best offer she was likely to have

Yes said Harriet earnestly and well she might nobody could ever
have a better  Well I wish them happy with all my heart  And now
Miss Woodhouse I do not think I shall mind seeing them again 
He is just as superior as ever  but being married you know
it is quite a different thing  No indeed Miss Woodhouse you need
not be afraid I can sit and admire him now without any great misery 
To know that he has not thrown himself away is such a comfort  
She does seem a charming young woman just what he deserves 
Happy creature  He called her Augusta  How delightful

When the visit was returned Emma made up her mind  She could then
see more and judge better  From Harriet's happening not to be
at Hartfield and her father's being present to engage Mr Elton
she had a quarter of an hour of the lady's conversation to herself
and could composedly attend to her and the quarter of an hour quite
convinced her that Mrs Elton was a vain woman extremely well
satisfied with herself and thinking much of her own importance
that she meant to shine and be very superior but with manners which
had been formed in a bad school pert and familiar that all her
notions were drawn from one set of people and one style of living
that if not foolish she was ignorant and that her society would
certainly do Mr Elton no good

Harriet would have been a better match  If not wise or refined herself
she would have connected him with those who were but Miss Hawkins
it might be fairly supposed from her easy conceit had been the best
of her own set  The rich brother in law near Bristol was the pride
of the alliance and his place and his carriages were the pride
of him

The very first subject after being seated was Maple Grove My brother
Mr Suckling's seat  a comparison of Hartfield to Maple Grove 
The grounds of Hartfield were small but neat and pretty and the
house was modern and well built Mrs Elton seemed most favourably
impressed by the size of the room the entrance and all that she
could see or imagine  Very like Maple Grove indeed  She was quite
struck by the likeness  That room was the very shape and size
of the morning room at Maple Grove her sister's favourite room  
Mr Elton was appealed to  Was not it astonishingly like  
She could really almost fancy herself at Maple Grove

And the staircase  You know as I came in I observed how very like
the staircase was placed exactly in the same part of the house 
I really could not help exclaiming  I assure you Miss Woodhouse
it is very delightful to me to be reminded of a place I am so
extremely partial to as Maple Grove  I have spent so many happy
months there with a little sigh of sentiment A charming place
undoubtedly  Every body who sees it is struck by its beauty
but to me it has been quite a home  Whenever you are transplanted
like me Miss Woodhouse you will understand how very delightful it
is to meet with any thing at all like what one has left behind 
I always say this is quite one of the evils of matrimony

Emma made as slight a reply as she could but it was fully sufficient
for Mrs Elton who only wanted to be talking herself

So extremely like Maple Grove  And it is not merely the house  
the grounds I assure you as far as I could observe are strikingly
like  The laurels at Maple Grove are in the same profusion as here
and stand very much in the same way  just across the lawn
and I had a glimpse of a fine large tree with a bench round it
which put me so exactly in mind  My brother and sister will be
enchanted with this place  People who have extensive grounds
themselves are always pleased with any thing in the same style

Emma doubted the truth of this sentiment  She had a great idea
that people who had extensive grounds themselves cared very little
for the extensive grounds of any body else but it was not worth
while to attack an error so double dyed and therefore only said
in reply

When you have seen more of this country I am afraid you will think
you have overrated Hartfield  Surry is full of beauties

Oh yes I am quite aware of that  It is the garden of England
you know  Surry is the garden of England

Yes but we must not rest our claims on that distinction 
Many counties I believe are called the garden of England
as well as Surry

No I fancy not replied Mrs Elton with a most satisfied smile
I never heard any county but Surry called so

Emma was silenced

My brother and sister have promised us a visit in the spring
or summer at farthest continued Mrs Elton and that will be
our time for exploring  While they are with us we shall explore
a great deal I dare say  They will have their barouche landau
of course which holds four perfectly and therefore without saying
any thing of our carriage we should be able to explore the different
beauties extremely well  They would hardly come in their chaise
I think at that season of the year  Indeed when the time draws on
I shall decidedly recommend their bringing the barouche landau
it will be so very much preferable  When people come into a beautiful
country of this sort you know Miss Woodhouse one naturally wishes
them to see as much as possible and Mr Suckling is extremely fond
of exploring  We explored to King's Weston twice last summer
in that way most delightfully just after their first having the
barouche landau  You have many parties of that kind here I suppose
Miss Woodhouse every summer

No not immediately here  We are rather out of distance of the very
striking beauties which attract the sort of parties you speak of
and we are a very quiet set of people I believe more disposed
to stay at home than engage in schemes of pleasure

Ah there is nothing like staying at home for real comfort 
Nobody can be more devoted to home than I am  I was quite
a proverb for it at Maple Grove  Many a time has Selina said
when she has been going to Bristol I really cannot get this girl
to move from the house  I absolutely must go in by myself though I
hate being stuck up in the barouche landau without a companion
but Augusta I believe with her own good will would never stir
beyond the park paling  Many a time has she said so and yet I
am no advocate for entire seclusion  I think on the contrary
when people shut themselves up entirely from society it is a very
bad thing and that it is much more advisable to mix in the world in
a proper degree without living in it either too much or too little 
I perfectly understand your situation however Miss Woodhouse  
looking towards Mr Woodhouse Your father's state of health must
be a great drawback  Why does not he try Bath  Indeed he should 
Let me recommend Bath to you  I assure you I have no doubt of its doing
Mr Woodhouse good

My father tried it more than once formerly but without receiving
any benefit and Mr Perry whose name I dare say is not unknown
to you does not conceive it would be at all more likely to be
useful now

Ah that's a great pity for I assure you Miss Woodhouse
where the waters do agree it is quite wonderful the relief
they give  In my Bath life I have seen such instances of it 
And it is so cheerful a place that it could not fail of being of
use to Mr Woodhouse's spirits which I understand are sometimes
much depressed  And as to its recommendations to you I fancy I
need not take much pains to dwell on them  The advantages of Bath
to the young are pretty generally understood  It would be a charming
introduction for you who have lived so secluded a life and I could
immediately secure you some of the best society in the place 
A line from me would bring you a little host of acquaintance and my
particular friend Mrs Partridge the lady I have always resided
with when in Bath would be most happy to shew you any attentions
and would be the very person for you to go into public with

It was as much as Emma could bear without being impolite 
The idea of her being indebted to Mrs Elton for what was called
an introduction  of her going into public under the auspices
of a friend of Mrs Elton's  probably some vulgar dashing widow
who with the help of a boarder just made a shift to live  
The dignity of Miss Woodhouse of Hartfield was sunk indeed

She restrained herself however from any of the reproofs she could
have given and only thanked Mrs Elton coolly but their going
to Bath was quite out of the question and she was not perfectly
convinced that the place might suit her better than her father 
And then to prevent farther outrage and indignation changed the
subject directly

I do not ask whether you are musical Mrs Elton  Upon these occasions
a lady's character generally precedes her and Highbury has long
known that you are a superior performer

Oh no indeed I must protest against any such idea 
A superior performer  very far from it I assure you 
Consider from how partial a quarter your information came 
I am doatingly fond of music  passionately fond  and my friends
say I am not entirely devoid of taste but as to any thing else
upon my honour my performance is mediocre to the last degree 
You Miss Woodhouse I well know play delightfully  I assure you
it has been the greatest satisfaction comfort and delight to me
to hear what a musical society I am got into  I absolutely cannot
do without music  It is a necessary of life to me and having always
been used to a very musical society both at Maple Grove and in Bath
it would have been a most serious sacrifice  I honestly said as much
to Mr E when he was speaking of my future home and expressing
his fears lest the retirement of it should be disagreeable
and the inferiority of the house too  knowing what I had been
accustomed to  of course he was not wholly without apprehension 
When he was speaking of it in that way I honestly said that the
world I could give up  parties balls plays  for I had no fear
of retirement  Blessed with so many resources within myself
the world was not necessary to me  I could do very well without it 
To those who had no resources it was a different thing but my
resources made me quite independent  And as to smaller sized rooms
than I had been used to I really could not give it a thought 
I hoped I was perfectly equal to any sacrifice of that description 
Certainly I had been accustomed to every luxury at Maple Grove but I
did assure him that two carriages were not necessary to my happiness
nor were spacious apartments  But said I to be quite honest
I do not think I can live without something of a musical society 
I condition for nothing else but without music life would be a blank
to me

We cannot suppose said Emma smiling that Mr Elton would hesitate
to assure you of there being a very musical society in Highbury
and I hope you will not find he has outstepped the truth more than
may be pardoned in consideration of the motive

No indeed I have no doubts at all on that head  I am delighted
to find myself in such a circle  I hope we shall have many sweet
little concerts together  I think Miss Woodhouse you and I
must establish a musical club and have regular weekly meetings
at your house or ours  Will not it be a good plan  If we
exert ourselves I think we shall not be long in want of allies 
Something of that nature would be particularly desirable for me
as an inducement to keep me in practice for married women you know  
there is a sad story against them in general  They are but too apt
to give up music

But you who are so extremely fond of it  there can
be no danger surely

I should hope not but really when I look around among my acquaintance
I tremble  Selina has entirely given up music  never touches
the instrument  though she played sweetly  And the same may be said
of Mrs Jeffereys  Clara Partridge that was  and of the two Milmans
now Mrs Bird and Mrs James Cooper and of more than I can enumerate 
Upon my word it is enough to put one in a fright  I used to be
quite angry with Selina but really I begin now to comprehend
that a married woman has many things to call her attention 
I believe I was half an hour this morning shut up with my housekeeper

But every thing of that kind said Emma will soon
be in so regular a train  

Well said Mrs Elton laughing we shall see

Emma finding her so determined upon neglecting her music
had nothing more to say and after a moment's pause Mrs Elton
chose another subject

We have been calling at Randalls said she and found them
both at home and very pleasant people they seem to be 
I like them extremely  Mr Weston seems an excellent creature  
quite a first rate favourite with me already I assure you 
And she appears so truly good  there is something so motherly
and kind hearted about her that it wins upon one directly 
She was your governess I think

Emma was almost too much astonished to answer but Mrs Elton
hardly waited for the affirmative before she went on

Having understood as much I was rather astonished to find her
so very lady like  But she is really quite the gentlewoman

Mrs Weston's manners said Emma were always particularly good 
Their propriety simplicity and elegance would make them the safest
model for any young woman

And who do you think came in while we were there

Emma was quite at a loss  The tone implied some old acquaintance  
and how could she possibly guess

Knightley continued Mrs Elton Knightley himself  Was not
it lucky  for not being within when he called the other day
I had never seen him before and of course as so particular a
friend of Mr E's I had a great curiosity  My friend Knightley
had been so often mentioned that I was really impatient to see him
and I must do my caro sposo the justice to say that he need not
be ashamed of his friend  Knightley is quite the gentleman 
I like him very much  Decidedly I think a very gentleman like man

Happily it was now time to be gone  They were off and Emma
could breathe

Insufferable woman was her immediate exclamation  Worse than I
had supposed  Absolutely insufferable  Knightley  I could not
have believed it  Knightley  never seen him in her life before
and call him Knightley  and discover that he is a gentleman 
A little upstart vulgar being with her Mr E and her caro sposo
and her resources and all her airs of pert pretension and
underbred finery  Actually to discover that Mr Knightley is
a gentleman  I doubt whether he will return the compliment
and discover her to be a lady  I could not have believed it 
And to propose that she and I should unite to form a musical club 
One would fancy we were bosom friends  And Mrs Weston  
Astonished that the person who had brought me up should be
a gentlewoman  Worse and worse  I never met with her equal 
Much beyond my hopes  Harriet is disgraced by any comparison 
Oh what would Frank Churchill say to her if he were here 
How angry and how diverted he would be  Ah there I am  
thinking of him directly  Always the first person to be thought of 
How I catch myself out  Frank Churchill comes as regularly into
my mind  

All this ran so glibly through her thoughts that by the time
her father had arranged himself after the bustle of the Eltons
departure and was ready to speak she was very tolerably capable
of attending

Well my dear he deliberately began considering we never saw
her before she seems a very pretty sort of young lady and I dare say
she was very much pleased with you  She speaks a little too quick 
A little quickness of voice there is which rather hurts the ear 
But I believe I am nice I do not like strange voices and nobody speaks
like you and poor Miss Taylor  However she seems a very obliging
pretty behaved young lady and no doubt will make him a very good wife 
Though I think he had better not have married  I made the best
excuses I could for not having been able to wait on him and Mrs Elton
on this happy occasion I said that I hoped I should in the course
of the summer  But I ought to have gone before  Not to wait upon
a bride is very remiss  Ah it shews what a sad invalid I am 
But I do not like the corner into Vicarage Lane

I dare say your apologies were accepted sir  Mr Elton knows you

Yes  but a young lady  a bride  I ought to have paid my respects
to her if possible  It was being very deficient

But my dear papa you are no friend to matrimony and therefore
why should you be so anxious to pay your respects to a bride 
It ought to be no recommendation to you  It is encouraging people
to marry if you make so much of them

No my dear I never encouraged any body to marry but I would
always wish to pay every proper attention to a lady  and a bride
especially is never to be neglected  More is avowedly due to her 
A bride you know my dear is always the first in company
let the others be who they may

Well papa if this is not encouragement to marry I do not know
what is  And I should never have expected you to be lending your
sanction to such vanity baits for poor young ladies

My dear you do not understand me  This is a
matter of mere common politeness and good breeding
and has nothing to do with any encouragement to people to marry

Emma had done  Her father was growing nervous and could not
understand her  Her mind returned to Mrs Elton's offences
and long very long did they occupy her



CHAPTER XV


Emma was not required by any subsequent discovery to retract her ill
opinion of Mrs Elton  Her observation had been pretty correct 
Such as Mrs Elton appeared to her on this second interview
such she appeared whenever they met again  self important presuming
familiar ignorant and ill bred She had a little beauty and a
little accomplishment but so little judgment that she thought herself
coming with superior knowledge of the world to enliven and improve
a country neighbourhood and conceived Miss Hawkins to have held
such a place in society as Mrs Elton's consequence only could surpass

There was no reason to suppose Mr Elton thought at all differently
from his wife  He seemed not merely happy with her but proud 
He had the air of congratulating himself on having brought such
a woman to Highbury as not even Miss Woodhouse could equal
and the greater part of her new acquaintance disposed to commend
or not in the habit of judging following the lead of Miss Bates's
good will or taking it for granted that the bride must be as clever
and as agreeable as she professed herself were very well satisfied
so that Mrs Elton's praise passed from one mouth to another as it
ought to do unimpeded by Miss Woodhouse who readily continued her
first contribution and talked with a good grace of her being very
pleasant and very elegantly dressed

In one respect Mrs Elton grew even worse than she had appeared
at first  Her feelings altered towards Emma  Offended probably
by the little encouragement which her proposals of intimacy met with
she drew back in her turn and gradually became much more cold
and distant and though the effect was agreeable the ill will
which produced it was necessarily increasing Emma's dislike 
Her manners too  and Mr Elton's were unpleasant towards Harriet 
They were sneering and negligent  Emma hoped it must rapidly work
Harriet's cure but the sensations which could prompt such behaviour
sunk them both very much  It was not to be doubted that poor
Harriet's attachment had been an offering to conjugal unreserve
and her own share in the story under a colouring the least favourable
to her and the most soothing to him had in all likelihood been
given also  She was of course the object of their joint dislike  
When they had nothing else to say it must be always easy to begin
abusing Miss Woodhouse and the enmity which they dared not shew
in open disrespect to her found a broader vent in contemptuous
treatment of Harriet

Mrs Elton took a great fancy to Jane Fairfax and from the first 
Not merely when a state of warfare with one young lady might be
supposed to recommend the other but from the very first and she
was not satisfied with expressing a natural and reasonable admiration  
but without solicitation or plea or privilege she must be wanting
to assist and befriend her  Before Emma had forfeited her confidence
and about the third time of their meeting she heard all Mrs Elton's
knight errantry on the subject  

Jane Fairfax is absolutely charming Miss Woodhouse  I quite
rave about Jane Fairfax  A sweet interesting creature  So mild
and ladylike  and with such talents  I assure you I think she
has very extraordinary talents  I do not scruple to say that she
plays extremely well  I know enough of music to speak decidedly
on that point  Oh she is absolutely charming  You will laugh at
my warmth  but upon my word I talk of nothing but Jane Fairfax  
And her situation is so calculated to affect one  Miss Woodhouse
we must exert ourselves and endeavour to do something for her 
We must bring her forward  Such talent as hers must not be suffered
to remain unknown  I dare say you have heard those charming lines of
the poet

        Full many a flower is born to blush unseen
          And waste its fragrance on the desert air

We must not allow them to be verified in sweet Jane Fairfax

I cannot think there is any danger of it was Emma's calm answer  
and when you are better acquainted with Miss Fairfax's situation
and understand what her home has been with Colonel and Mrs Campbell
I have no idea that you will suppose her talents can be unknown

Oh but dear Miss Woodhouse she is now in such retirement
such obscurity so thrown away  Whatever advantages she may have
enjoyed with the Campbells are so palpably at an end  And I think
she feels it  I am sure she does  She is very timid and silent 
One can see that she feels the want of encouragement  I like her
the better for it  I must confess it is a recommendation to me 
I am a great advocate for timidity  and I am sure one does
not often meet with it  But in those who are at all inferior
it is extremely prepossessing  Oh  I assure you Jane Fairfax
is a very delightful character and interests me more than I
can express

You appear to feel a great deal  but I am not aware how you or any
of Miss Fairfax's acquaintance here any of those who have known
her longer than yourself can shew her any other attention than  

My dear Miss Woodhouse a vast deal may be done by those who dare
to act  You and I need not be afraid  If we set the example
many will follow it as far as they can though all have not
our situations  We have carriages to fetch and convey her home
and we live in a style which could not make the addition of
Jane Fairfax at any time the least inconvenient  I should be
extremely displeased if Wright were to send us up such a dinner
as could make me regret having asked more than Jane Fairfax
to partake of it  I have no idea of that sort of thing  It is
not likely that I should considering what I have been used to 
My greatest danger perhaps in housekeeping may be quite the
other way in doing too much and being too careless of expense 
Maple Grove will probably be my model more than it ought to be  
for we do not at all affect to equal my brother Mr Suckling
in income  However my resolution is taken as to noticing Jane Fairfax  
I shall certainly have her very often at my house shall introduce
her wherever I can shall have musical parties to draw out her talents
and shall be constantly on the watch for an eligible situation 
My acquaintance is so very extensive that I have little doubt
of hearing of something to suit her shortly  I shall introduce her
of course very particularly to my brother and sister when they come
to us  I am sure they will like her extremely and when she gets
a little acquainted with them her fears will completely wear off
for there really is nothing in the manners of either but what is
highly conciliating  I shall have her very often indeed while they
are with me and I dare say we shall sometimes find a seat for her in
the barouche landau in some of our exploring parties

Poor Jane Fairfax  thought Emma  You have not deserved this 
You may have done wrong with regard to Mr Dixon but this is a
punishment beyond what you can have merited  The kindness and protection
of Mrs Elton  Jane Fairfax and Jane Fairfax  Heavens  Let me
not suppose that she dares go about Emma Woodhouse ing me  
But upon my honour there seems no limits to the licentiousness
of that woman's tongue

Emma had not to listen to such paradings again  to any so exclusively
addressed to herself  so disgustingly decorated with a dear Miss
Woodhouse  The change on Mrs Elton's side soon afterwards appeared
and she was left in peace  neither forced to be the very particular
friend of Mrs Elton nor under Mrs Elton's guidance the very
active patroness of Jane Fairfax and only sharing with others in a
general way in knowing what was felt what was meditated what was done

She looked on with some amusement  Miss Bates's gratitude for
Mrs Elton's attentions to Jane was in the first style of guileless
simplicity and warmth  She was quite one of her worthies  
the most amiable affable delightful woman  just as accomplished
and condescending as Mrs Elton meant to be considered 
Emma's only surprize was that Jane Fairfax should accept
those attentions and tolerate Mrs Elton as she seemed to do 
She heard of her walking with the Eltons sitting with the Eltons
spending a day with the Eltons  This was astonishing  She could not
have believed it possible that the taste or the pride of Miss Fairfax
could endure such society and friendship as the Vicarage had to offer

She is a riddle quite a riddle said she  To chuse to remain
here month after month under privations of every sort  And now
to chuse the mortification of Mrs Elton's notice and the penury
of her conversation rather than return to the superior companions
who have always loved her with such real generous affection

Jane had come to Highbury professedly for three months the Campbells
were gone to Ireland for three months but now the Campbells
had promised their daughter to stay at least till Midsummer
and fresh invitations had arrived for her to join them there 
According to Miss Bates  it all came from her  Mrs Dixon had
written most pressingly  Would Jane but go means were to be found
servants sent friends contrived  no travelling difficulty allowed
to exist but still she had declined it

She must have some motive more powerful than appears for refusing
this invitation was Emma's conclusion  She must be under some
sort of penance inflicted either by the Campbells or herself 
There is great fear great caution great resolution somewhere  
She is not to be with the Dixons  The decree is issued by somebody 
But why must she consent to be with the Eltons  Here is quite a
separate puzzle

Upon her speaking her wonder aloud on that part of the subject
before the few who knew her opinion of Mrs Elton Mrs Weston
ventured this apology for Jane

We cannot suppose that she has any great enjoyment at the Vicarage
my dear Emma  but it is better than being always at home 
Her aunt is a good creature but as a constant companion
must be very tiresome  We must consider what Miss Fairfax quits
before we condemn her taste for what she goes to

You are right Mrs Weston said Mr Knightley warmly Miss Fairfax
is as capable as any of us of forming a just opinion of Mrs Elton 
Could she have chosen with whom to associate she would not have
chosen her  But with a reproachful smile at Emma she receives
attentions from Mrs Elton which nobody else pays her

Emma felt that Mrs Weston was giving her a momentary glance
and she was herself struck by his warmth  With a faint blush
she presently replied

Such attentions as Mrs Elton's I should have imagined
would rather disgust than gratify Miss Fairfax  Mrs Elton's
invitations I should have imagined any thing but inviting

I should not wonder said Mrs Weston if Miss Fairfax were to have
been drawn on beyond her own inclination by her aunt's eagerness
in accepting Mrs Elton's civilities for her  Poor Miss Bates may
very likely have committed her niece and hurried her into a greater
appearance of intimacy than her own good sense would have dictated
in spite of the very natural wish of a little change

Both felt rather anxious to hear him speak again and after a few
minutes silence he said

Another thing must be taken into consideration too  Mrs Elton
does not talk to Miss Fairfax as she speaks of her  We all know
the difference between the pronouns he or she and thou the plainest
spoken amongst us we all feel the influence of a something beyond
common civility in our personal intercourse with each other  
a something more early implanted  We cannot give any body the
disagreeable hints that we may have been very full of the hour before 
We feel things differently  And besides the operation of this
as a general principle you may be sure that Miss Fairfax awes
Mrs Elton by her superiority both of mind and manner and that
face to face Mrs Elton treats her with all the respect which she
has a claim to  Such a woman as Jane Fairfax probably never fell
in Mrs Elton's way before  and no degree of vanity can prevent
her acknowledging her own comparative littleness in action if not
in consciousness

I know how highly you think of Jane Fairfax said Emma 
Little Henry was in her thoughts and a mixture of alarm and delicacy
made her irresolute what else to say

Yes he replied any body may know how highly I think of her

And yet said Emma beginning hastily and with an arch look
but soon stopping  it was better however to know the worst at once  
she hurried on  And yet perhaps you may hardly be aware yourself
how highly it is  The extent of your admiration may take you by
surprize some day or other

Mr Knightley was hard at work upon the lower buttons of his thick
leather gaiters and either the exertion of getting them together
or some other cause brought the colour into his face as he answered

Oh are you there  But you are miserably behindhand  Mr Cole
gave me a hint of it six weeks ago

He stopped  Emma felt her foot pressed by Mrs Weston and did
not herself know what to think  In a moment he went on  

That will never be however I can assure you  Miss Fairfax
I dare say would not have me if I were to ask her  and I am very
sure I shall never ask her

Emma returned her friend's pressure with interest and was pleased
enough to exclaim

You are not vain Mr Knightley  I will say that for you

He seemed hardly to hear her he was thoughtful  and in a manner
which shewed him not pleased soon afterwards said

So you have been settling that I should marry Jane Fairfax

No indeed I have not  You have scolded me too much for match making
for me to presume to take such a liberty with you  What I said
just now meant nothing  One says those sort of things of course
without any idea of a serious meaning  Oh no upon my word I have not
the smallest wish for your marrying Jane Fairfax or Jane any body 
You would not come in and sit with us in this comfortable way
if you were married

Mr Knightley was thoughtful again  The result of his reverie was
No Emma I do not think the extent of my admiration for her will
ever take me by surprize  I never had a thought of her in that way
I assure you  And soon afterwards Jane Fairfax is a very charming
young woman  but not even Jane Fairfax is perfect  She has a fault 
She has not the open temper which a man would wish for in a wife

Emma could not but rejoice to hear that she had a fault 
Well said she and you soon silenced Mr Cole I suppose

Yes very soon  He gave me a quiet hint I told him he was mistaken
he asked my pardon and said no more  Cole does not want to be wiser
or wittier than his neighbours

In that respect how unlike dear Mrs Elton who wants to be wiser
and wittier than all the world  I wonder how she speaks of the Coles  
what she calls them  How can she find any appellation for them
deep enough in familiar vulgarity  She calls you Knightley  what can
she do for Mr Cole  And so I am not to be surprized that Jane
Fairfax accepts her civilities and consents to be with her 
Mrs Weston your argument weighs most with me  I can much more
readily enter into the temptation of getting away from Miss Bates
than I can believe in the triumph of Miss Fairfax's mind over
Mrs Elton  I have no faith in Mrs Elton's acknowledging herself
the inferior in thought word or deed or in her being under any
restraint beyond her own scanty rule of good breeding I cannot
imagine that she will not be continually insulting her visitor
with praise encouragement and offers of service that she will not be
continually detailing her magnificent intentions from the procuring
her a permanent situation to the including her in those delightful
exploring parties which are to take place in the barouche landau

Jane Fairfax has feeling said Mr Knightley  I do not
accuse her of want of feeling  Her sensibilities I suspect
are strong  and her temper excellent in its power of forbearance
patience self controul but it wants openness  She is reserved
more reserved I think than she used to be  And I love an
open temper  No  till Cole alluded to my supposed attachment
it had never entered my head  I saw Jane Fairfax and conversed with
her with admiration and pleasure always  but with no thought beyond

Well Mrs Weston said Emma triumphantly when he left them
what do you say now to Mr Knightley's marrying Jane Fairfax

Why really dear Emma I say that he is so very much occupied
by the idea of not being in love with her that I should not wonder
if it were to end in his being so at last  Do not beat me



CHAPTER XVI


Every body in and about Highbury who had ever visited Mr Elton
was disposed to pay him attention on his marriage  Dinner parties and
evening parties were made for him and his lady and invitations
flowed in so fast that she had soon the pleasure of apprehending
they were never to have a disengaged day

I see how it is said she  I see what a life I am to lead
among you  Upon my word we shall be absolutely dissipated 
We really seem quite the fashion  If this is living in the country
it is nothing very formidable  From Monday next to Saturday
I assure you we have not a disengaged day  A woman with fewer
resources than I have need not have been at a loss

No invitation came amiss to her  Her Bath habits made evening parties
perfectly natural to her and Maple Grove had given her a taste
for dinners  She was a little shocked at the want of two
drawing rooms at the poor attempt at rout cakes and there being
no ice in the Highbury card parties Mrs Bates Mrs Perry
Mrs Goddard and others were a good deal behind hand in knowledge
of the world but she would soon shew them how every thing ought
to be arranged  In the course of the spring she must return their
civilities by one very superior party  in which her card tables
should be set out with their separate candles and unbroken packs
in the true style  and more waiters engaged for the evening
than their own establishment could furnish to carry round
the refreshments at exactly the proper hour and in the proper order

Emma in the meanwhile could not be satisfied without a dinner
at Hartfield for the Eltons  They must not do less than others
or she should be exposed to odious suspicions and imagined capable
of pitiful resentment  A dinner there must be  After Emma had
talked about it for ten minutes Mr Woodhouse felt no unwillingness
and only made the usual stipulation of not sitting at the bottom
of the table himself with the usual regular difficulty of deciding
who should do it for him

The persons to be invited required little thought  Besides the Eltons
it must be the Westons and Mr Knightley so far it was all of course  
and it was hardly less inevitable that poor little Harriet must
be asked to make the eighth  but this invitation was not given
with equal satisfaction and on many accounts Emma was particularly
pleased by Harriet's begging to be allowed to decline it 
She would rather not be in his company more than she could help 
She was not yet quite able to see him and his charming happy
wife together without feeling uncomfortable  If Miss Woodhouse
would not be displeased she would rather stay at home 
It was precisely what Emma would have wished had she deemed it
possible enough for wishing  She was delighted with the fortitude
of her little friend  for fortitude she knew it was in her to give
up being in company and stay at home and she could now invite the
very person whom she really wanted to make the eighth Jane Fairfax  
Since her last conversation with Mrs Weston and Mr Knightley
she was more conscience stricken about Jane Fairfax than she had
often been  Mr Knightley's words dwelt with her  He had said
that Jane Fairfax received attentions from Mrs Elton which nobody
else paid her

This is very true said she at least as far as relates to me
which was all that was meant  and it is very shameful  Of the same age  
and always knowing her  I ought to have been more her friend  
She will never like me now  I have neglected her too long  But I
will shew her greater attention than I have done

Every invitation was successful  They were all disengaged and all happy  
The preparatory interest of this dinner however was not yet over 
A circumstance rather unlucky occurred  The two eldest little
Knightleys were engaged to pay their grandpapa and aunt a visit of
some weeks in the spring and their papa now proposed bringing them
and staying one whole day at Hartfield  which one day would be
the very day of this party  His professional engagements did
not allow of his being put off but both father and daughter were
disturbed by its happening so  Mr Woodhouse considered eight
persons at dinner together as the utmost that his nerves could bear  
and here would be a ninth  and Emma apprehended that it would
be a ninth very much out of humour at not being able to come even
to Hartfield for forty eight hours without falling in with a dinner party

She comforted her father better than she could comfort herself
by representing that though he certainly would make them nine
yet he always said so little that the increase of noise would be
very immaterial  She thought it in reality a sad exchange for herself
to have him with his grave looks and reluctant conversation opposed
to her instead of his brother

The event was more favourable to Mr Woodhouse than to Emma 
John Knightley came but Mr Weston was unexpectedly summoned to town
and must be absent on the very day  He might be able to join them
in the evening but certainly not to dinner  Mr Woodhouse was quite
at ease and the seeing him so with the arrival of the little boys
and the philosophic composure of her brother on hearing his fate
removed the chief of even Emma's vexation

The day came the party were punctually assembled and Mr John Knightley
seemed early to devote himself to the business of being agreeable 
Instead of drawing his brother off to a window while they waited
for dinner he was talking to Miss Fairfax  Mrs Elton as elegant
as lace and pearls could make her he looked at in silence  
wanting only to observe enough for Isabella's information  but Miss
Fairfax was an old acquaintance and a quiet girl and he could
talk to her  He had met her before breakfast as he was returning
from a walk with his little boys when it had been just beginning
to rain  It was natural to have some civil hopes on the subject
and he said

I hope you did not venture far Miss Fairfax this morning or I
am sure you must have been wet  We scarcely got home in time 
I hope you turned directly

I went only to the post office said she and reached home
before the rain was much  It is my daily errand  I always fetch
the letters when I am here  It saves trouble and is a something
to get me out  A walk before breakfast does me good

Not a walk in the rain I should imagine

No but it did not absolutely rain when I set out

Mr John Knightley smiled and replied

That is to say you chose to have your walk for you were not six
yards from your own door when I had the pleasure of meeting you
and Henry and John had seen more drops than they could count long before 
The post office has a great charm at one period of our lives 
When you have lived to my age you will begin to think letters are
never worth going through the rain for

There was a little blush and then this answer

I must not hope to be ever situated as you are in the midst of
every dearest connexion and therefore I cannot expect that simply
growing older should make me indifferent about letters

Indifferent  Oh no  I never conceived you could become indifferent 
Letters are no matter of indifference they are generally a very
positive curse

You are speaking of letters of business mine are letters
of friendship

I have often thought them the worst of the two replied he coolly 
Business you know may bring money but friendship hardly
ever does

Ah you are not serious now  I know Mr John Knightley too well  
I am very sure he understands the value of friendship as well as
any body  I can easily believe that letters are very little to you
much less than to me but it is not your being ten years older than
myself which makes the difference it is not age but situation 
You have every body dearest to you always at hand I probably
never shall again and therefore till I have outlived all my affections
a post office I think must always have power to draw me out
in worse weather than to day

When I talked of your being altered by time by the progress of years
said John Knightley I meant to imply the change of situation
which time usually brings  I consider one as including the other 
Time will generally lessen the interest of every attachment not within
the daily circle  but that is not the change I had in view for you 
As an old friend you will allow me to hope Miss Fairfax that ten
years hence you may have as many concentrated objects as I have

It was kindly said and very far from giving offence  A pleasant
thank you seemed meant to laugh it off but a blush a quivering lip
a tear in the eye shewed that it was felt beyond a laugh 
Her attention was now claimed by Mr Woodhouse who being
according to his custom on such occasions making the circle of
his guests and paying his particular compliments to the ladies
was ending with her  and with all his mildest urbanity said

I am very sorry to hear Miss Fairfax of your being out this
morning in the rain  Young ladies should take care of themselves  
Young ladies are delicate plants  They should take care of their
health and their complexion  My dear did you change your stockings

Yes sir I did indeed and I am very much obliged by your kind
solicitude about me

My dear Miss Fairfax young ladies are very sure to be cared for  
I hope your good grand mama and aunt are well  They are some
of my very old friends  I wish my health allowed me to be a
better neighbour  You do us a great deal of honour to day I am sure 
My daughter and I are both highly sensible of your goodness
and have the greatest satisfaction in seeing you at Hartfield

The kind hearted polite old man might then sit down and feel
that he had done his duty and made every fair lady welcome and easy

By this time the walk in the rain had reached Mrs Elton
and her remonstrances now opened upon Jane

My dear Jane what is this I hear  Going to the post office
in the rain  This must not be I assure you  You sad girl
how could you do such a thing  It is a sign I was not there
to take care of you

Jane very patiently assured her that she had not caught any cold

Oh do not tell me  You really are a very sad girl and do not
know how to take care of yourself  To the post office indeed 
Mrs Weston did you ever hear the like  You and I must positively
exert our authority

My advice said Mrs Weston kindly and persuasively I certainly
do feel tempted to give  Miss Fairfax you must not run such risks  
Liable as you have been to severe colds indeed you ought
to be particularly careful especially at this time of year 
The spring I always think requires more than common care 
Better wait an hour or two or even half a day for your letters
than run the risk of bringing on your cough again  Now do not you
feel that you had  Yes I am sure you are much too reasonable 
You look as if you would not do such a thing again

Oh she shall not do such a thing again eagerly rejoined
Mrs Elton  We will not allow her to do such a thing again  
and nodding significantly  there must be some arrangement made
there must indeed  I shall speak to Mr E The man who fetches
our letters every morning one of our men I forget his name
shall inquire for yours too and bring them to you  That will obviate
all difficulties you know and from us I really think my dear Jane
you can have no scruple to accept such an accommodation

You are extremely kind said Jane but I cannot give up my
early walk  I am advised to be out of doors as much as I can
I must walk somewhere and the post office is an object and upon
my word I have scarcely ever had a bad morning before

My dear Jane say no more about it  The thing is determined
that is laughing affectedly as far as I can presume to determine
any thing without the concurrence of my lord and master  You know
Mrs Weston you and I must be cautious how we express ourselves 
But I do flatter myself my dear Jane that my influence is not entirely
worn out  If I meet with no insuperable difficulties therefore
consider that point as settled

Excuse me said Jane earnestly I cannot by any means consent
to such an arrangement so needlessly troublesome to your servant 
If the errand were not a pleasure to me it could be done as it
always is when I am not here by my grandmama's

Oh my dear but so much as Patty has to do  And it is a kindness
to employ our men

Jane looked as if she did not mean to be conquered but instead
of answering she began speaking again to Mr John Knightley

The post office is a wonderful establishment said she  
The regularity and despatch of it  If one thinks of all that it
has to do and all that it does so well it is really astonishing

It is certainly very well regulated

So seldom that any negligence or blunder appears  So seldom
that a letter among the thousands that are constantly passing
about the kingdom is even carried wrong  and not one in a million
I suppose actually lost  And when one considers the variety
of hands and of bad hands too that are to be deciphered
it increases the wonder

The clerks grow expert from habit  They must begin with some
quickness of sight and hand and exercise improves them  If you
want any farther explanation continued he smiling they are
paid for it  That is the key to a great deal of capacity 
The public pays and must be served well

The varieties of handwriting were farther talked of and the usual
observations made

I have heard it asserted said John Knightley that the same
sort of handwriting often prevails in a family and where the
same master teaches it is natural enough  But for that reason
I should imagine the likeness must be chiefly confined to the females
for boys have very little teaching after an early age and scramble
into any hand they can get  Isabella and Emma I think do write
very much alike  I have not always known their writing apart

Yes said his brother hesitatingly there is a likeness 
I know what you mean  but Emma's hand is the strongest

Isabella and Emma both write beautifully said Mr Woodhouse
and always did  And so does poor Mrs Weston  with half a sigh
and half a smile at her

I never saw any gentleman's handwriting  Emma began looking also
at Mrs Weston but stopped on perceiving that Mrs Weston was
attending to some one else  and the pause gave her time to reflect
Now how am I going to introduce him  Am I unequal to speaking
his name at once before all these people  Is it necessary
for me to use any roundabout phrase  Your Yorkshire friend  
your correspondent in Yorkshire  that would be the way I suppose
if I were very bad  No I can pronounce his name without the
smallest distress  I certainly get better and better  Now for it

Mrs Weston was disengaged and Emma began again  Mr Frank Churchill
writes one of the best gentleman's hands I ever saw

I do not admire it said Mr Knightley  It is too small  
wants strength  It is like a woman's writing

This was not submitted to by either lady  They vindicated him
against the base aspersion  No it by no means wanted strength  
it was not a large hand but very clear and certainly strong 
Had not Mrs Weston any letter about her to produce  No she had
heard from him very lately but having answered the letter had put
it away

If we were in the other room said Emma if I had my writing desk
I am sure I could produce a specimen  I have a note of his  
Do not you remember Mrs Weston employing him to write for you
one day

He chose to say he was employed  

Well well I have that note and can shew it after dinner
to convince Mr Knightley

Oh when a gallant young man like Mr Frank Churchill
said Mr Knightley dryly writes to a fair lady like Miss Woodhouse
he will of course put forth his best

Dinner was on table  Mrs Elton before she could be spoken to
was ready and before Mr Woodhouse had reached her with his request
to be allowed to hand her into the dining parlour was saying  

Must I go first  I really am ashamed of always leading the way

Jane's solicitude about fetching her own letters had not escaped Emma 
She had heard and seen it all and felt some curiosity to know
whether the wet walk of this morning had produced any  She suspected
that it had that it would not have been so resolutely encountered
but in full expectation of hearing from some one very dear
and that it had not been in vain  She thought there was an air
of greater happiness than usual  a glow both of complexion and spirits

She could have made an inquiry or two as to the expedition
and the expense of the Irish mails  it was at her tongue's end  
but she abstained  She was quite determined not to utter a word
that should hurt Jane Fairfax's feelings and they followed
the other ladies out of the room arm in arm with an appearance
of good will highly becoming to the beauty and grace of each



CHAPTER XVII


When the ladies returned to the drawing room after dinner Emma found
it hardly possible to prevent their making two distinct parties  
with so much perseverance in judging and behaving ill did Mrs Elton
engross Jane Fairfax and slight herself  She and Mrs Weston were
obliged to be almost always either talking together or silent together 
Mrs Elton left them no choice  If Jane repressed her for a
little time she soon began again and though much that passed
between them was in a half whisper especially on Mrs Elton's side
there was no avoiding a knowledge of their principal subjects 
The post office  catching cold  fetching letters  and friendship
were long under discussion and to them succeeded one which must
be at least equally unpleasant to Jane  inquiries whether she had
yet heard of any situation likely to suit her and professions of
Mrs Elton's meditated activity

Here is April come said she I get quite anxious about you 
June will soon be here

But I have never fixed on June or any other month  merely looked
forward to the summer in general

But have you really heard of nothing

I have not even made any inquiry I do not wish to make any yet

Oh my dear we cannot begin too early you are not aware
of the difficulty of procuring exactly the desirable thing

I not aware said Jane shaking her head dear Mrs Elton
who can have thought of it as I have done

But you have not seen so much of the world as I have  You do not
know how many candidates there always are for the first situations 
I saw a vast deal of that in the neighbourhood round Maple Grove 
A cousin of Mr Suckling Mrs Bragge had such an infinity
of applications every body was anxious to be in her family
for she moves in the first circle  Wax candles in the schoolroom 
You may imagine how desirable  Of all houses in the kingdom
Mrs Bragge's is th